Teamsters Union Officials Push Custodians and Food Service Workers Into Strike at University of Minnesota
Custodians and food service workers across University of Minnesota campuses have been pushed into a strike by officials with Teamsters Local 320, an affiliate of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters. The walkout, which has already caused delays and disruptions to campus operations, comes despite the university’s ongoing efforts to bargain in good faith and keep essential services running.
In a statement posted online, the university emphasized its commitment to both its employees and the broader community:
“The university remains open to continued discussions with Teamsters through the Bureau of Mediation Services. We hope a resolution can be reached that supports our employees and ensures that the University remains good financial stewards.”
The administration also addressed the disruption directly in a campus-wide email with the subject line, “Preparing for Service Disruptions.” The message called the strike “disappointing” but reassured students and staff that campuses would continue to operate, with “vital services” still available, though “some delays or minor disruptions may occur.”
Union bosses, however, declared they “cannot water down” their proposals, signaling little willingness to compromise. By choosing a strike over constructive bargaining, Teamsters officials have prioritized confrontation over collaboration, leaving students and staff to bear the brunt of the fallout.
Sources: MPR News, Workday Magazine
For employees, it’s important to remember that union members can be fined or penalized by union officials for refusing to strike. However, thanks to the U.S. Supreme Court’s Janus v. AFSCME decision, public employees—including those at the University of Minnesota—have the right to resign from union membership at any time and stop paying union dues. Doing so frees them from union mandates and strike orders they may not support.
Those who wish to keep working and providing services to the campus community have every legal right to do so. While Teamsters bosses may focus on standoffs, individual employees can choose to prioritize students, stability, and the university’s mission.
For more information on your rights as an employee regarding unions, visit Know Your Rights.
