AGWA-UAW Prioritizes Contract Enforcement in the New Semester

Special Message from The Sun Star Staff:

Workers also enter their first full semester under the new labor contract between UAF and the Alaska Graduate Workers’ Association. The contract, which came into effect on July 1, includes pay increases for all Graduate Workers, just-cause employment measures, and other benefits that help guarantee a fair and secure working environment for UA graduate students. 

Several reports of contract non-compliance have already come in, and grievance procedures are underway. One particular concern is the pay rate of Student Assistants who are not Teaching Assistants or Research Assistants. According to the negotiated contract, all unit members should receive a wage increase--either to the new minimum, or an increase of 2.5%, whichever is higher. Several students are reported to have been denied a wage increase, as the University claims the 2.5% raise for students already above the minimum does not apply to Student Assistants. The union is fighting to make sure all students receive the full benefits of the contract, including those who were denied a 2.5% raise. 

Any Graduate Workers who have concerns about contract implementation should reach out to organize.agwa@gmail.com.