The Boston University Graduate Worker Strike has now reached a significant milestone, becoming the longest strike by graduate workers at the university in over a decade. The strike, which began on December 9, 2021, has seen hundreds of graduate workers picketing and rallying on campus in protest of what they claim are unfair labor practices.
The graduate workers, who are members of the United Auto Workers (UAW) Local 1596, are demanding better wages, benefits, and working conditions. They are also calling for increased job security and protections against harassment and discrimination.
Despite several rounds of negotiations between the union and the university, a resolution has yet to be reached. The graduate workers have refused to back down, determined to continue their fight until their demands are met.
The strike has garnered widespread support from the Boston University community, with students, faculty, and alumni all rallying behind the graduate workers. Solidarity events, fundraisers, and other forms of support have been organized to show solidarity with the striking workers.
In a statement, the graduate workers have emphasized the importance of their fight not only for themselves, but for all workers at the university. They argue that their demands are reasonable and necessary in order to ensure fair treatment and a decent standard of living for all workers.
The strike has put a spotlight on the issues faced by graduate workers at universities across the country. Many graduate workers are paid low wages, receive limited benefits, and have little job security, despite the critical role they play in the functioning of universities.
As the strike at Boston University continues, the graduate workers remain steadfast in their determination to see it through to the end. They are calling on the university administration to listen to their demands and to negotiate in good faith in order to reach a fair and just resolution.
The Boston University Graduate Worker Strike serves as a reminder of the power of collective action and the importance of standing up for workers’ rights. It is a testament to the strength and resilience of graduate workers in the face of adversity, and a call to action for all those who believe in fair treatment and justice for all workers.