Bargaining II 2015 Scheduled

Image shows photo from last year's bargaining table. The text overlay reads "Bargaining II. United we bargain, divided we beg. Friday, Oct 30th, 10:00-11:00am, SVC2070."

On Friday, October 30th from 10:00-11:30am in SVC 2070, the University and USF Graduate Assistants United will continue negotiating the terms on raises, fees, tuition waivers, and appointment letters covered by the 2014-2017 Collective Bargaining Agreement.

What’s at stake this year?

  • Raises: Right now GA’s make poverty-level wages. Even worse, MAs and PhDs have different minimum wages. We want fair pay and equal pay for equal work.
  • Fees: University fees levied on graduate assistants are too high. On average, fees comprise nearly 14% of a GA’s modest take-home pay at USF, and every year they get more and more expensive. Enough is enough.
  • Tuition Waivers: Right now, our contract language doesn’t explicitly protect our 100% tuition waiver. We’re fighting for explicit language because the contract should unambiguously ensure GAs are not paying to work.
  • Appointment Letters: Appointment letters protect your rights. All appointment letters should have to be complete and issued on time, so you know exactly what your working conditions are.

What can I do to help?

  • Come to the bargaining session! Sit with us at the table as we discuss our proposals with the administration.
  • Ask two of your colleagues to come with you to the bargaining session, even if they aren’t a member. Not a single voice should be left out of this process!
  • Follow us on Facebook and Twitter to get updates about bargaining prep. We’ll have a drop-in session to make posters, answer questions, and get excited.

Bargaining began on June 25th, and the administration has continually rejected proposals to consider wage increases and fee waivers. Graduate students generate revenue and goodwill for the university, and the university should provide fair compensation in return.

The only way we will be heard is if we join our voices together. Show your support by showing up and showing the administration that you care about your contract and your compensation.

Join us and stand alongside your colleagues on Friday, October 30th at 10:00a in SVC2070. Come to bargaining and show where you stand.

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