University of California Workers Strike over Unfair Labour Disputes

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.

UC Healthcare Worker Strike

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:

• AFSCME Local 3299 (37,000 members): Respiratory therapists, pharmacy techs, mental health workers, custodians, and gardeners.
• UPTE-CWA Local 9119 (20,000 members): Physician assistants, optometrists, pharmacists, nurse case managers, and mental health workers.

Why are Workers Striking?

???? 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.

UC’s Response

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

What’s Next?

⚡ 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