BREAKING NEWS: The University of California and the University Professional and Technical Employees (UPTE) union have just reached a contract agreement, successfully averting a potentially massive strike involving 21,000 employees. This urgent development comes after 17 months of negotiations and intense mediation, marking a significant moment for the UC system.
The agreement was confirmed on Saturday, November 11, 2023, just days before the scheduled strike on November 17 and 18. The union had planned to mobilize alongside over 60,000 supporters from two additional unions, AFSCME 3299 and the California Nurses Association, making this strike potentially the largest in UC history.
This labor agreement addresses crucial issues such as retention, pay, and safe working conditions, which have been at the forefront of UPTE’s demands due to a staffing crisis threatening patient care, student services, and research operations. Dan Russell, UPTE president and chief negotiator, emphasized the agreement as a “hard-won victory” that will not only benefit the union’s members but also millions of patients and students who rely on UC’s innovative research and services.
“Our tentative agreement reflects the advocacy of UPTE for our employees who play critical roles across the University,” Russell stated. The details of the contract are set to be released next week, pending ratification by union members.
Previously, UC had been in a contentious negotiation process, with Russell accusing the administration of prioritizing disruption over dialogue. However, Meredith Turner, the UC senior vice president of external relations, praised the collaborative efforts that led to this resolution. She highlighted the university’s commitment to maintaining financial responsibility while enhancing employee benefits.
This agreement marks a pivotal shift in labor relations within the UC system, especially following UPTE’s involvement in multiple statewide strikes this year, demonstrating the union’s determination to secure better working conditions for its members.
With the potential strike now on hold, all eyes will be on the ratification process and the forthcoming details of the contract. This development not only provides immediate relief for workers but also reassures patients and students who depend on the UC system’s services.
What’s next? Stakeholders will watch closely as UPTE members review the tentative agreement. Meanwhile, AFSCME 3299 and the California Nurses Association continue their fight for similar agreements, emphasizing solidarity among unions at UC campuses.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops. This agreement could set a precedent for labor relations across higher education institutions nationwide.