SEIU 503 Higher Ed Strike Pledge Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is our Union bargaining team asking us to sign a strike pledge?
A: Classified workers have told the bargaining team that they are fed up with low pay and lack of respect for the critical work we do for students. We need to demonstrate our determination and unity in order to move management’s bargaining team on our priorities and to remind them that higher ed doesn’t work without classified workers.
Q: What’s the difference between a strike pledge and a strike vote?
A: Our strike pledge is a way to show everyone, including our bargaining team, how determined and unified classified workers are to fight for a great contract. If management continues to come to the bargaining table with unacceptable proposals, our bargaining team may ask us to take a strike vote. The strike vote is a vote to give our bargaining team the authority to call for a strike, which strengthens their hand in negotiations.
Q: Does the strike pledge mean we are going on strike? Does this pledge mean I’m committing to go out on strike?
A: A strike pledge doesn’t mean we are going on strike but signing the strike pledge means classified workers are committing to one another that they will vote ‘yes’ if our bargaining team asks us to take a strike vote. If our bargaining team calls on us to go out on strike, all members should participate.
Q: Can I be fired or retaliated against for signing the strike pledge?
A: It is against the law for our employer to retaliate against workers for signing the strike pledge or taking other actions in support of our union, up to and including striking. If you feel you have been retaliated or discriminated against for your union activity—or for signing a strike pledge—notify your steward or union organizer right away.
Q: Does someone have to be a member to sign a strike pledge?
A: No. What we negotiate at the bargaining table affects ALL represented employees, and any SEIU-represented classified worker can sign the pledge to show the team you’re behind them. That being said, management knows how many of us are members of the union, and they’re making decisions about how much power they think our union has based on how many members there are. Any nonmember who signs the strike pledge should take the next step and join the union to show management we have strong support and unity around our bargaining demands. Only union members in good standing can participate in a strike authorization vote, and only members can vote on ratifying our contrac.
Q: What else can we do to avoid – or win – a strike?
A: Show management we are ready to do what it takes to win the contract we deserve, from petitions to Purple-Up days and more, union members have been taking action to win the contract we need. We will continue taking public, political, and workplace actions. And now an outpouring of strike pledges will show how far we could go to win what we deserve. We need to show we can fight one day longer than management.
Q: I want to help – what should I do?
A: Sign the Strike Pledge. Talk to your coworkers about signing the pledge and, if they haven’t already done so, becoming a member of our union. And join the Contract Action Team to be notified of any future bargaining actions.