The Bargaining Committee has decided to accept the University’s offer of mediation with a strike pause.
Given the timing and status of bargaining, we believe that we have the best chance of winning a fair agreement this semester if we try mediation as a pathway while reserving the right to resume the strike later in the semester. We all know the University does not want further disruption, and we can evaluate in a week or two if mediation is getting us towards a strong contract. It is critical that we use this time to grow our power to take action, especially if we need to put more pressure on Columbia due to insufficient progress in mediation.
What this means for you:
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You are expected to return to work on Monday, April 5.
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If the attestation continues, you may attest to get paid on time.
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When returning to work, you ARE NOT REQUIRED to do any work in excess of your regular workload.
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You are not expected to do three weeks of work this week, and the more work that remains undone the stronger our threat for future strikes. You must be paid for any additional work you do. Please let us know if you are asked to perform work in excess of your weekly workload here.
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We can continue to have informational pickets and other actions.
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You may continue to strike if you wish: Although UAW Strike Assistance Fund benefits do not apply during a pause, workers retain the legal right to participate in concerted collective activities.
The Bargaining Committee undertook this time-sensitive decision—with a 7/10 vote— following consultation and strategic constraints. We referred to departmental worker-organizer reports, last weekend’s survey, perspectives from today’s General Body Meeting, and many communications that we have received privately. Through the course of the strike, we received feedback that student workers could more effectively participate in the strike with sufficient notice were we to return to work. With these considerations in mind, we are moving forward quickly to attempt to work toward a strong contract through mediation while maintaining the potential to demonstrate our labor power again before this semester ends.
GWC-UAW Local 2110 Bargaining Committee