Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Ohio University Faculty Overwhelmingly Vote to Form Union

Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.

After a yearslong organizing campaign, faculty members at Ohio University are celebrating a powerful victory in their election to form the United Academics of Ohio University (UAOU), which is affiliated with the American Association of University Professors (AAUP) and the American Federation of Teachers (AFT).

Of the staff who voted, over 70% cast a ballot in favor of organizing, according to the State Employment Relations Board. While the petition to join UAOU was filed in March 2024, faculty have been discussing a union four years prior after dozens of their colleagues were fired during the COVID-19 pandemic. As they turn their attention to bargaining, members are hoping to secure a contract with improved job security, fair pay and a stronger collective voice at work.

“I am so proud to be part of OU faculty coming together to vote yes for our union,” said Rachel Terman, an associate professor in sociology. “I am looking forward to a faculty union that works with the administration to do what is best for students, faculty and higher education in Ohio and particularly Southeast Ohio. The work to get to this point hasn’t been easy, but the persistence and patience of OU faculty are a testament to our professional dedication.”

Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 04/02/2025 - 09:58

Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Workers at Famous LA Museums Launch Effort to Form Union

Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.

Staff at Los Angeles’ Natural History Museum and La Brea Tar Pits have gone public with their intent to join AFSCME District Council 36.

As part of AFSCME’s Cultural Workers United (CWU) organizing campaign, workers are joining together under the name Natural History Museum & Tar Pits Workers Union (NHMTPWU). The bargaining unit would cover some 300 performers, engineers, educators, guest relations associates, and other workers who are seeking improvements like higher wages and more workplace transparency.

“As staff, we provide valuable services to our Los Angeles community and work hard to keep our institutions running,” workers said in a public letter that urged management to voluntarily recognize the union. “We believe that the power of decision making must be shared with all voices, including ours, across various departments and diverse roles within the institution.”

Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 04/01/2025 - 10:05