You — yes, you — have the power to help win increased wages, dental insurance, workload protections, and so much more. We’ve tried asking BU for all these things and asking alone doesn’t work. Negotiations by other grad unions have taught us that we can only win a strong contract if we have mass participation and take collective action.
Grad workers are busy, but you might already be taking actions to organize in your department! Do you …
- talk with your coworkers about your workplace?
- raise concerns with faculty and staff about challenges you and your coworkers face?
- organize group activities in your department?
If yes, you are already organizing! These everyday tasks are a key part of making our union function. Beyond organizing at the department level, are are some more ways you can take action today:
- Sign up for the BUGWU newsletter for weekly updates and action items
- Talk to a steward to learn more
- Attend a meeting:
General Membership Meetings
General membership meetings are the highest decision-making body of BUGWU. GMMs happen on the third Thursday of the month at 5:30 pm in-person or on Zoom, followed by a social event.
Organizing Committee
Graduate student workers run BUGWU at every level. If you have suggestions or ideas and even a little bit of time, join the organizing committee! Joining the OC requires no formal commitment. If you’re interested in building your union, attend an OC meeting (Mondays at 5 pm). Past OC activities include:
- Structuring stewards elections
- Outlining general membership meetings
- Planning social activities