An update from our most recent bargaining sessions with the University
First, thank you to everyone who came to our pizza party and bargaining update meeting on August 4. It was great to have so many of us together in the same room. And the bargaining team appreciated the opportunity to share updates and hear from folks!
Since that meeting, our bargaining team met August 10. Our August 13 meeting with the university was cancelled because of the storm, but we all met together August 20.
While we spent a great deal of time during our meeting August 20 discussing the university’s working conditions counter-proposal, the meeting was not very productive.
We reminded ISU that our response on several of the significant pieces of the working conditions proposal is contingent on our conversations related to compensation. They’ve had our compensation proposal — modeled significantly off of the salary study work that was previously done — since April.
We were not able to get any firm commitment from them when they will have a response ready for us. And until we get that response, it will be difficult to come to any additional agreements or make any more progress.
We are ready to get this done! We shared with ISU how important it is for our members to get a contract in place — and for us to see action that supoprts their words that they too want to get things resolved.
We are currently working on scheduling additional bargaining sessions. Thank you to everyone who wore black in support on August 13 and 20. And the team greatly appreciated dinner being provided August 20. There will be more opportunities for you to show your support and solidarity!
On behalf of all of us — Lauren Denofrio-Corrales, Jake Davis, Andy Goveia, Chris Pederson, Kevin Thompson, Amy Yount and IEA UniServ Director Ben Matthews — thank you! If you are wanting to help in any way, you can reach out to LSEA president, Meg Flanagan!
Our power at the bargaining table comes from membership and our solidarity is our strength. If you have not yet joined us, please join us today! Reach out to anyone of the bargaining team or contact Meg, if you have questions or would like more information about becoming a LSEA member!
Don’t hesitate to reach out with questions. And watch for more updates as we have more information to share.
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