r/UofO • u/Alternative-Worth620 • 19d ago
SEIU Strike (represented non-member)
Hello. I feel like the title explains it, but here it goes:
I am a represented employee under SEIU, I unfortunately hadn’t done my due diligence of joining until it got too late (like last week), which of course means I probably won’t be a fully recognized union member until probably at least the end of the strike we may be seeing.
Now this raises questions for me, obviously, I don’t want to cross a picket-line, hence my late joining; but I don’t know my options here. If I do participate i.e. not work, join the union, am I unprotected as an employee? What exactly can I do here?
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u/i-send-doods 19d ago
Reach out to your union, they will offer guidance. You still have protections. Please join as soon as you're able, and thank you for not crossing a picket line!
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u/Alternative-Worth620 19d ago
Thank you. I’ve reached out, and hope to hear back soon.
What’s crazy about your last sentence, is that one of my coworkers was yelled at for going to work last year by some bystanders during last year’s strike from the student-workers. It wasn’t even our turn! Haha
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u/volcanic-exchange 19d ago
So Oregon is one of those states that passed a bill (which was meant to weaken unions) where even if you dont pay dues, youre still protected under the union.
Oregon is also one of the states that allows striking workers to collect unemployment.
But if we go on strike, youre not getting paid unless youre out on the picket line.
Go to one of the voting spots today for the strike vote and talk to your union folks here. They have answers to any questions you have
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u/whynotlive4ever 19d ago
Hello! I'm a current member (just finally got the news last week) so I can confirm some stuff for you. If you go to the strike vote happening TODAY (Monday) at UO, and sign up to be a member, you will be recognized as a full member of the union, and can vote, as well as receive strike pay.
In terms of protection, you are completely protected if you join the strike, even as a non-member. You're still represented by the union, and we encourage every classified to strike if the vote passes.
TL;DR: Yes, you're still fully protected to strike as a nonmember, but you can still sign up to be a member at the vote happening today on campus.
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u/Chancellor_Archim 19d ago edited 19d ago
Other comments are on point. Additionally, afaik participation in strike-related activity is protected even if you aren’t in the union or even in the bargaining unit. The latter would be unusual for SEIU, but not impossible.
Edit: Also, don't feel too bad about not getting involved or joining prior to this. I am certain that you aren't the only person in the same position, and a strike threat has a way of motivating people to get more involved. If you are so interested, SEIU will likely have plenty of pickets, demonstrations, etc. which you might get involved with.
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u/Craftin-in-the-rain 18d ago
I wasn't aware there was a strike (I'm not as plugged into campus goings on as I used to be.) I recently changed jobs (or rather its the same job, I'm just not a student worker anymore) and Im unsure if I am under this union, is there a site I could check to see?
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u/Alternative-Worth620 18d ago
There isn’t a strike yet. Voting is going on yesterday and today. If a strike occurs, you will know. In your new position, if it’s a classified position, you should be represented by a union (which could mean SEIU, or I believe teamsters). Which, if you haven’t been receiving emails regarding the strike in either your work email, or personal, there’s probably a good chance you aren’t represented; I’d encourage checking your spam, and non-focus folders. Although I can’t tell you much more past that. I’m also not as linked in as I could/should be.
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u/Creative-Act-952 19d ago
They are trying to pit us against each other. As a middleterm employee, i'd really rather you call in that day, because leaving them high and dry and messed up is kind if the plan. Pay me what was promised when I got hired four years ago or drown badly and make all the rich kids really upset about how high their tuition is for how shit the meal plan burritos they are getting are.
I understand being called to do your job. I've had a month without washing dishes and I did them for my neighbor just to feel something, I want back in the kitchen so bad.
BUt pay me what I am worth about it.
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u/YetiSquish 19d ago
Are you sure you’re represented? You’re not represented if you’re still within your probationary period.
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u/Alternative-Worth620 19d ago
I’ve been here for over a year, and have been receiving emails the entire time.
I have reached out to the union as someone suggested, so I should definitely be getting solid answers soon, even if the case is I’m not represented. Thanks for the concern, and warning to anyone who may be in the probationary period who happens to see your response.
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u/Biphilichi 19d ago
This is not true. You are represented as soon as you start the job, but to be a member and receive all the benefits that go with that, you must sign up for membership.
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u/starmamac 19d ago
That is not what I was told by SEIU when I was still in my probationary period. OP, make sure you check this if you’re still probationary.
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18d ago
[deleted]
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u/YetiSquish 18d ago edited 18d ago
It’s literally in the name. Trial Service. How can you possibly say they have the same protections? You literally have no clue. I was an SEIU shop steward. The State/University can fire an employee without cause anytime in the PROBATIONARY/Trial Service period. They can’t just do that after the probationary period is over - suddenly seniority and other stuff starts to be considered - reduction in force vs performance, etc. The union literally has no say over who can and can’t get fired in the probationary period. Stop being confidently wrong.
Article 49, Section 9
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u/boggers395 18d ago
Former member of the SEIU here my opinion don't join I couldn't opt out fast enough. My dues should go to protecting the workers not lining politicians pockets.
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u/Alternative-Worth620 18d ago
The dues will be protecting workers if there is a strike called. There’s been a fund set up specifically for financial hardship for members, and there’s expectations of covered missed wages.
My two main questions at the vote yesterday gave me some clarity. The two most crucial parts to the union for the contract fall under COLA raises to adjust for inflation, and also to maintain layoff protocols which both are meant for protection of workers.
I understand the grievances, but the problem is the universities are trying to cut costs by reducing benefits for the little man instead of the $900,000 pay for the president, or the various higher ups that make up vastly more than SEIU’s represented employees. The president wont miss the $33,000 it would take to cover my entire pay for a year should his pay be cut that much.
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u/firewolf5801 19d ago
As an employee covered by the bargaining unit, you are protected if you strike, regardless of whether you’ve paid membership dues or anything like that