Today, we concluded the ratification vote on a proposed agreement for our first union contract. After a vote with tremendous participation from our unit, the ballots have been counted and the majority of voters (1,093-970) felt compelled to reject the offer made by Columbia and mobilize further for a strong first contract.
In short, the University’s final offer failed to meaningfully address a number of issues that are pressing to our unit, including protections for those who experience discrimination and sexual harassment at work and recognition for all members of our unit. While we recognize the urgency of having the protections of a union contract, student workers have demonstrated their dedication to continue fighting for a contract we deserve. We will not quit.
Over the next few weeks, we will be charting a course forward, which will include further mobilizations, in order to achieve our goal of a more equitable and just Columbia.