University Decision to End Bargaining Sparks Outrage Among Non-Tenure Track Faculty Over Religious Exemption

Non-tenure track (NTT) faculty at LMU recently expressed strong feelings against the University’s decision to stop recognizing their union, represented by Service Employees International Union (SEIU) Local 721. This comes after the University claimed a religious exemption that allows it to evade the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) regulations about unions.

The chair of the board of trustees, Paul S. Viviano, explained that this move was driven by a desire to focus on direct communication with faculty, rather than negotiations with third-party intermediaries. He emphasized that the board believes this approach supports LMU’s mission as a religious institution.

According to recent reports, a growing number of universities across the U.S. are facing similar disputes over labor relations and faculty rights. A study found that, in 2023, about 70% of faculty members at private universities felt their rights were being undermined due to administration decisions, creating tensions similar to those seen at LMU.

Bryan Wisch, a bargaining team member and instructor at LMU, called the decision a violation of labor rights and a tactic to stifle the faculty’s collective voice. He voiced concerns about the financial figures provided by the University, which claimed that implementing union proposals would cost millions. Wisch argued that these figures are inflated, aimed at framing faculty demands as unreasonable.

SEIU Local 721 has stated that more than 100,000 members are ready to resist such union-busting moves. David Green, the local president, mentioned that the union would fight this decision vigorously, emphasizing their commitment to equitable treatment of faculty.

Amid these developments, NTT instructors plan to rally against what they see as unjust actions by the University. This illustrates a wider pattern where faculty across various institutions are increasingly vocal about their rights and working conditions.

As these labor disputes unfold, they’re not just local issues but part of a larger conversation about the rights of workers in educational settings. Real-time reactions on social media reveal significant support for the faculty’s cause, demonstrating a growing solidarity among educators nationwide.

In the context of ongoing labor movements, it’s essential to recognize the rights of faculty as vital contributors to educational institutions. Solidarity and collective action remain crucial as faculty navigate these challenging dynamics.

For a deeper dive into labor rights and education, you can refer to trusted sources like the National Labor Relations Board or follow the unfolding events through SEIU Local 721’s official updates.

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