On January 17, the United Campus Workers of Virginia gathered in Richmond’s Capitol Square. This statewide union, representing employees at major universities like UVA, VCU, and Virginia Tech, pressed for collective bargaining rights and reforms in higher education. They highlighted significant issues, including delays in pay for graduate workers and the rising cost of living near their campuses.
Collective bargaining is the ability for workers to negotiate for better wages, benefits, and working conditions. The union members argued that without these rights, public workers and higher education staff face challenges in addressing pay disputes, restrictions on free speech, and poor workplace environments. They believe that having the right to bargain would empower them to secure fair treatment from their employers.
Speakers at the rally connected these labor rights to broader issues of social justice. Mark Wood, a member of UCW-VA and a professor at VCU, criticized policies that limit free expression on campuses. He pointed out that recent changes in rules have made it harder for students and faculty to voice their opinions. “Every effort is being made to shut us down,” Wood stated, indicating that universities are restricting how and when free speech can occur.
Margaret Cook, a leader from the Communications Workers of America, stressed the importance of continuing the fight not just for current workers but for future ones. She called for unity in the face of cutbacks and attacks on diversity and inclusion efforts. “What we do is essential,” Cook emphasized.
Leah Esslinger, a UCW-VA organizer, shared insights on how the rally came together. Planning began in the summer, focusing on grassroots engagement and building momentum across campuses. She encouraged participation by having members share their personal experiences.
On the day of the rally, members met with over 40 state legislators to discuss systemic issues affecting public workers. One critical topic was the recurring problem of delayed stipend payments for graduate workers. Many reported receiving their stipends late or for less than expected amounts, creating financial strain. Some had to take out loans and missed important payments due to these delays.
Cecelia Parks, chair of UCW-VA’s political coalition, noted that many graduate workers lack formal contracts due to current laws, intensifying these problems. She believes that collective bargaining would allow these workers to secure contracts that guarantee timely and fair pay. “These issues wouldn’t happen if we had a union contract,” Parks said.
While the University has started a task force to address these concerns, Parks noted that without enforceable agreements, workers remain vulnerable. UCW-VA has been building relationships with local legislators to support initiatives aimed at improving conditions for graduate workers.
One notable initiative is the Cut the Checks campaign. Launched in January 2023, it fights for solid policies to ensure timely and complete payments for all workers. Since its founding in 2020, UCW-VA has secured raises for graduate workers and improved payment practices through advocacy.
After the rally, Leah Esslinger stressed the importance of keeping the momentum going. She urged participants to contact their representatives to ensure their concerns are heard. The rally ended on a powerful note, with attendees chanting “Solidarity Forever,” a rallying cry for workers around the world.
