When over a year ago 99% of WCM postdocs voted to form our union, we intended to reach a fair contract for all postdocs as quickly as possible based on standards set by postdocs at Mount Sinai.
However, by consistently rejecting basic rights that our unionized colleagues already have, WCM has delayed us from reaching this goal and has shown that they are not taking our concerns seriously. We have waited long enough, and this is why our elected Bargaining Committee has called for a Strike Authorization Vote, which starts today, Monday April 14th.
As WCM continues to undermine basic protections for postdocs amidst funding uncertainty, it is more important than ever to fight for our rights. Unresolved issues include force majeure, which would allow WCM to unilaterally take away our benefits, protections against unfair termination and discrimination for the whole duration of our employment, paid time off for visa renewal and other improvements to relocation assistance, housing and salaries.
The Bargaining Committee strongly encourages you to vote YES on today’s Strike Authorization Vote (SAV). While we hope that we ultimately do not have to go on strike, we are prepared to do so if necessary to to fight for what we deserve and need.
Voter Eligibility:
Eligible voters are Weill Cornell Postdoctoral Associates, Fellows, and Visiting Fellows who are currently employed by the institute and who have filled out either a WCMPU-UAW authorization card or bargaining survey.
How to vote:
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Check your emails! Eligible voters will get a unique link to vote on the ElectionBuddy website.
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If you have not previously signed an authorization card or filled out a bargaining survey, you may do so here during the voting period in order to receive your ballot.
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If you believe you should have received an email to vote, please check your spam folder, and reach out to elections@wcmpostdocunion.org if you still cannot find it.
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If you have questions, reach out to an organizer at organizing@wcmpostdocunion.org – importantly:
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The vote is by secret ballot and all postdocs are protected from retaliation by national labor laws
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If WCM chose to withdraw pay or benefits during a strike, we would receive weekly strike pay and benefits with the help of the UAW strike fund
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International researchers have the same right as U.S. citizens to participate in a strike authorization vote and strike
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Make your voice heard! Vote YES to show WCM we want to reach a fair contract quickly!
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RSVP for our upcoming bargaining session, April 22: 12:00-3:00 pm
\This is our chance to make our voices heard loud and clear to the WCM administration, and to declare forcefully that unless they make significant progress towards a fair contract, they can expect a strike to follow. We must all come together with one voice to urge WCM to stop delaying; it is time they agree to a fair contract.
If you have any questions, please reach out at organizing@wcmpostdocunion.org or speak to your floor lead.
In Solidarity,
WCMPU-UAW Organizing Committee