On Tuesday, one day after more than 300 postdocs voted by 92% to authorize a strike, we met with WCM for our 28th bargaining session. In the session we saw clear signs of progress in response to the urgency demonstrated by our vote results.
In a major effort to reach a fair contract as quickly as possible, we presented WCM with a comprehensive package of all remaining articles in which we made significant movement in order to mirror Mount Sinai postdocs’ contract. You can read our comprehensive proposal on our bargaining tracker.
After we presented the package, WCM reiterated their desire for a force majeure article, which would give them the right to unilaterally alter the terms of our contract in the event of an unexpected disruption to operations. We once again emphasized that we would not accept any proposal that would require us to waive our right to first bargain as equals over changes to the contract. A bargaining observer said the following:
“It was frustrating to see WCM insist on being able to make changes to our contract without bargaining with us first, undermining every single protection we have fought to have included in our contract. Uncertainty with government funding affects all of us, not just the administration. But with this provision, they have the power to ruin people’s lives and ask for forgiveness after the fact, placing the burden entirely on us. I am willing to strike if it means making sure they can’t unilaterally change the protections we have won.”
— Claire Otero, postdoctoral associate in Pediatrics
After some discussion, WCM committed to bringing modified language on this proposal to the next session for us to review. They also offered 3 additional in-person sessions over the next six weeks, which we accepted. We expect WCM to respond to our package of articles in the next session on May 6.
It’s clear that WCM is feeling the pressure from our successful strike authorization vote. Make sure to RSVP for our next sessions, which will be in person, so that we can share logistical information ahead of the session.
As always, feel free to reach out to organizing@wcmpostdocunion.org with any questions.
In solidarity,
Dagan Marx
WCMPU-UAW Bargaining Committee