Education
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August 20, 2024
February 27, 2025
By Evans Momodu
3 minute digest
Published 09:50 UK(GMT), 27 Feb, 2025
February 26, 2025 – California – Tens of thousands of University of California (UC) health care and service workers have gone on strike, alleging unfair labour practices, low wages, and staffing shortages.
The American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees Local 3299 (AFSCME Local 3299) and the University Professional and Technical Employees (UPTE)-CWA Local 9119 represent nearly 60,000 workers across UC’s 10 campuses and medical centres listed below:
???? Unfair labour practices – Unions accuse UC of implementing arbitrary rules that limit workers' access to union representatives and attempt to silence whistleblowers.
???? Staffing shortages – Workers claim the university is failing to address a staff exodus that is hurting patient care, student services, and critical research.
???? Wage concerns – Unions argue that real wages are declining, making it harder for staff to remain in their positions.
The University of California has denied the allegations, stating that it has offered meaningful wage increases, healthcare premium reductions, and other incentives.
“Both unions have chosen to focus their energy on strike preparation and amplifying misinformation rather than negotiating in good faith.” – University of California statement
⚡ UPTE’s strike will last three days
⚡ AFSCME’s strike has no announced end date
⚡ Further disruptions expected across UC campuses and medical centers
The workers’ contracts expired in 2023, and negotiations have failed to yield agreements, leading to growing frustration among employees.
Source: CNN
