AFSCME President Lee Saunders recently joined Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) workers in their contract negotiations, advocating for fair pay and better conditions. The rally, organized by OHSU’s postdoctoral workers, highlighted the lack of progress in negotiations, with OHSU offering no improvements in wages, benefits, or diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.
Saunders emphasized the importance of fair negotiations, warning that AFSCME’s 1.4 million members nationwide support the postdocs and are prepared to take strong actions if necessary. He stated, “You’re standing up for what you believe in, you’re standing up because you have a seat at the table. They have a responsibility to negotiate a fair contract with you. And if they don’t, we will raise all kinds of hell.”
In addition to supporting the postdocs, Saunders celebrated the successful unionization of nearly 2,000 OHSU biomedical researchers. These researchers, certified by the Oregon Employment Relations Board (ERB), formed a union to enhance job security and improve pay. Saunders joined them to mark this organizing victory, emphasizing the newfound power and accountability their union status provides.
Lynne Swarbrick, a senior research associate, shared her experience of feeling powerless after being reclassified without a raise or input. She expressed optimism now that the union can negotiate better terms. Saunders highlighted the importance of transparency and accountability, particularly concerning the use of grant money for research.
With the union certified, the newly formed OHSU Research Workers United will begin bargaining with OHSU management to secure better working conditions and fair compensation.