Yesterday was the second to last bargaining session for the spring semester. What we heard from the administration today was outrageous and demonstrates why we all need to come togetherthis Thursday, April 18th, to work-in at the Smith Center to demand a fair contract now.
Compensation: Lowest Raises in A Decade
The administration essentially proposed pay decreases to members of our unit compared to the status quo. They proposed a three year compensation plan that amounts to the smallest raises over any three year period in over a decade, and will barely keep up with the cost of living.
Furthermore, the administration proposed a campus-wide minimum wage of $15 per hour for hourly student workers, a much lower rate than the status quo in many departments. Student workers at Harvard are highly capable and forgo years of working at much higher pay to contribute to the research and teaching mission of the university. Student workers deserve a wage that reflects our talents and our contribution to the university.
Healthcare: Refusal to bargain over healthcare that would improve coverage
The administration also refuses to bargain over improving our health insurance, including the need for removing the cap on mental health care visits and specialist visits, prescription drug costs, as well as dental premiums.
Rights including job security, harassment & discrimination: No responses
We have received no responses to our proposals that would guarantee rights and protections to student workers including on job security and protections from harassment and discrimination—it has been over a month.
Blanket Rejection on other benefits:
The administration rejected our proposals on the following topics with no discussion:
- Improving services at HUHS
- Reducing student debt
- Reducing tuition and fees
- Access to short term and long term disability insurance
- Food services benefits
- Tax assistance
- Housing policies
- Professional development funds
- Retirement benefits
On April 18 & May 1, we will come together to get a #ContractNow with fair compensation, adequate healthcare including vision and dental, and protections from harassment and discrimination. Join us to raise your voice now.
