Union Bosses Call for Yet Another Strike Across UC Campuses
Despite receiving a final contract offer that includes major concessions—such as a $25-per-hour wage floor and a 5% raise—union bosses representing AFSCME have called for yet another strike, sending more than 20,000 health and tech workers to the picket lines across University of California campuses.
The UC Office of the President emphasized that it has bargained in good faith for months, offering not only wage increases but also expanded leave benefits and reduced health care premiums for lower-wage employees. Still, union officials escalated the situation by ordering workers to strike instead of continuing to work toward a resolution.
What could have marked a turning point toward agreement has instead been overtaken by public demonstrations, disrupting campus operations and services that students, staff, and patients depend on every day.
As picket signs go up again, the decision raises questions about the real motivations behind these repeated walkouts—especially in light of the university’s willingness to meet key demands. It’s a clear example of how union officials can prioritize confrontation over constructive solutions.
While union leaders dominate the headlines and coordinate pressure campaigns, it’s important for every worker to remember participation in union strikes is voluntary. Public employees cannot be forced to strike. And thanks to their Janus Rights, they may resign from union membership at any time—freeing themselves from strike mandates, union dues, and political agendas they do not support.
Those who choose to keep serving students and communities during these disruptions have that right—and it should be respected.
Source: Hoodline San Francisco
For more information on your rights as an employee regarding unions, visit Know Your Rights.
