SPRINGFIELD — The union for professors at University of Illinois-Springfield and a staff union have authorized a strike, signaling that contract negotiations may have turned sour.
Two unions majorly authorized to strike: the UIS Staff Union and the UIS United Faculty.
Professors, support staff, and some students rallied on March 19 following a vote by the two unions authorizing a strike. They marched and carried signs near the student union — at times targeting their remarks towards administration that work inside the building.
“After months of no progress at the table, both unions requested the assistance of a federal mediator last fall and have participated in multiple mediated sessions,” a news release read. “Still, the administration refuses to bargain seriously and is offering unacceptable salary proposals that amount to pay cuts when adjusted for inflation.”
The authorization does not guarantee a strike, but it gives the leadership of the groups the ability to call a strike if they decide it is necessary.
The unions “remain ready to bargain,” according to the release.
The next faculty bargaining session is set for March 23 while staff are scheduled to negotiate with the administration on March 20.
Statement from UIS
A spokesperson for the university released a statement, saying that UIS “is disappointed” that the unions voted to authorize a strike, adding that a strike is not warranted from the university’s perspective.
“The University has presented proposals that represent a fair contract given the University’s fiscal constraints,” the statement read. “We respect our union colleagues and remain committed to working together to reach an agreement that serves the best interests of the entire university community while protecting the university’s financial wellness.”
The statement referred to UIS’ website for updates on negotiations.
(This story has been updated to fix an inaccuracy.)
Tom Ackerman covers breaking news and trending news along with general news for the Springfield State Journal-Register. He can be reached at tackerman@usatodayco.com.
This article originally appeared on State Journal-Register: University of Illinois Springfield professors authorize a strike
Reporting by Tom Ackerman, Springfield State Journal-Register / State Journal-Register
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