With Exams and Graduations On the Minds of Students, AFSCME and CWA Union Bosses Disrupt Campus Services
Thousands of employees forced to pay AFSCME Local 3299 and UPTE-CWA 9119 dues were again forced to go on strike by their union bosses across the University of California system, despite allegations that both unions have failed to engage in productive bargaining.
The UC Office of the President (UCOP) stated that AFSCME Local 3299 has not responded to university proposals since May, while UPTE-CWA 9119 did not attend its most recent bargaining session. “Both unions have chosen to focus their energy on strike preparation and amplifying misinformation rather than negotiating in good faith,” UCOP said in a statement.
The strike is already causing disruptions for students, with many facing reduced dining hours, uncleaned restrooms, and other service shortages. First-year student Tiara Monemi recalled similar issues during a previous AFSCME Local 3299 strike in November, noting reduced dining options and dirty bathrooms. Another student, Helen Padilla Hernandez, said the dining hall closures during that strike forced her to spend extra money on food, raising concerns about affordability for students.
While union members are required to participate in strikes and can face fines for refusing to walk out, it is important to note that public school teachers and other government employees cannot be forced to stay in a union. Thanks to Janus Rights, teachers can resign from their union and stop paying dues at any time, ensuring that they are not financially penalized for choosing to work instead of striking.
As the strike continues, students and faculty are left dealing with the fallout, questioning whether these repeated walkouts are truly bringing about meaningful change or simply causing further inconvenience.
Source: Daily Bruin
For more information on your rights as an employee regarding unions, visit Know Your Rights.
