Last Friday, February 28th, we returned to the bargaining table with Einstein for our 12th bargaining session. We saw firsthand our collective action’s impact. One day after the delivery of an Open Letter signed by a majority of postdocs urging Einstein to avoid further delays, the administration presented counter proposals on the 10 articles where they had previously shown no movement or moved backward: Discipline and Dismissal, Employment Records, Grievance and Arbitration, Health and Safety, Job Posting, Training, Union Access and Activity, Union Security, Workload, and Workspace and Materials. While many of these proposals returned to their October/November positions, in several key areas they continue to fall below the standards we deserve.
During the session, we pressed Einstein to clarify their remaining objections to some of our key demands. While their responses made it clear that we still have work to do, these discussions were productive. They strengthened our ability to craft targeted counter proposals that address the gaps and keep negotiations moving toward a fair agreement.
This progress is a direct result of our organizing efforts. It’s proof that when we stand together and make our voices heard, we can move Einstein in the right direction towards our goal of a fair and enforceable contract.
Let’s keep up the momentum! Stay engaged, attend upcoming meetings, and be ready to take action when needed. Together, we will win the contract we deserve.
Our next in-person session is scheduled for Wednesday, March 5th, from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM ET. Click here to RSVP if you’d like to attend this or a future session and see the process firsthand!
You can access the full text of these proposals using our online bargaining tracker.
As always, we encourage postdocs to reach out with any questions, concerns, or feedback. You can do so by simply replying to this email.
In Solidarity,
Paulina Alatriste Gonzalez
ERU-UAW Bargaining Committee