We are writing to provide more details about the upcoming ratification vote that will be conducted from tomorrow, Wednesday, April 21, 9 AM ET to Friday, April 30, 5 PM ET. You can read the full text of the tentative agreement here and go through the contract highlights here.
Why was the timeline for the vote chosen this way?
There is no minimum period of time required, but we do want to give everyone a reasonable opportunity to vote. We wanted to provide everyone with an opportunity to cast their ballots in a timely manner, while providing time for deliberation and discussion. If you are unsure about your vote, take time to look through the links above and/or talk to your department organizer(s), and you can cast your ballot at any point while the vote is open.
What platform will be used for the vote?
We will use ElectionBuddy. This electronic platform guarantees secrecy of ballots and makes sure that no one can vote more than once.
How can I access my ballot?
You should receive an email from ElectionBuddy with your ballot on Wednesday, April 21, 9 AM ET or soon after you sign a union card if the vote has already begun. Please check your spam, junk, and promotions folders if you cannot locate your ballot right away.
What if I cannot locate my ballot?
If you cannot locate the email from ElectionBuddy with the ballot, including in your spam, junk, and promotions folders, email us at columbiagradunion@gmail.com.
Who is eligible to vote?
Eligible voters are Columbia graduate and undergraduate students who are currently employed by the university, have been employed by the university in the past, or whose program includes a degree requirement to be employed by the university in one of the categories outlined by the NLRB decision (i.e., graduate and undergraduate Teaching Assistants, Teaching Fellows, Preceptors, Course Assistants, Readers, Graders, Graduate Research Assistants [including those on Training Grants], and All Departmental Research Assistants), and who have signed a union authorization card or similar card authorizing representation by GWC-UAW. If you have not done so already, you may fill out a union authorization card here.
If you do not satisfy the eligibility criteria but wish to participate in the vote, you will receive a challenged ballot. Challenged ballots are resolved and counted only if their number is determinative of the outcome of the vote.
What is the quorum for the vote? How is the outcome decided?
There is no quorum for the vote and a simple majority decides the outcome. However, for the vote to be representative, it is crucial that the majority of student workers participate.
When will we know the results?
We will know the results shortly after the vote is closed on Friday, April 30, at 5 PM ET. Everyone can attend the ballot count via Zoom (more details will be provided soon).