OSEs worked to pass legislation that codified their choice to form a union
Bellingham, WA – On April 15, the Washington State Public Employment Relations Commission (PERC) certified the union for Western Washington University’s 1,100 Operational Student Employees (OSEs). Their union, WAWU-UAW (Local 4929), also represents Educational Student Employees (or ESEs) at WWU.
History was made when SHB 1570 became law on March 18, which enshrined collective bargaining rights for OSEs. OSEs fought for over 3 years to achieve collective bargaining rights—already enjoyed by their peers—through strikes and legislative advocacy. The legislation is groundbreaking for student workers at WWU, across WA, and nationwide.
“We are thrilled finally to have achieved this milestone. For years, Operational Student Employees have fought for the same union protections so many student workers at Western and in the state of Washington already enjoy. Many of us have faced years of unsafe and inequitable working conditions with no route for input on solutions, and now, like our colleagues, we will have a voice and seat at the table to change that,” Sophia Maynard, Student Ambassador, The Foundation for WWU and Alumni.
“All along OSEs have been fighting for a Western where working class students can work and receive a top-notch education. We want Western to succeed, and we look forward to working together with admin to ensure that our positions are sustainable and allow OSEs now and in the future to thrive at Western,” said Sierra Demerjian, Resident Advisor, Reslife.
OSEs are now at the bargaining table with Educational Student Employees (ESEs) at WWU for the first time. Their priorities for the upcoming contract include: raising wages, securing access to free transit, providing support and training for students whose jobs expose them to potentially traumatic crises, and strengthening protections for international student workers.
“Operational Student Employees at Western Washington University have demonstrated incredible determination to form a union to improve their workplace and create a more accessible higher education—even working to pass legislation to secure their union rights. The UAW stands ready to support their efforts to bargain a great contract, and strengthen the labor movement,” said Mike Miller, Director of UAW Region 6.
OSEs are the first unionized student workers in Washington state to win a union who perform work that isn’t directly research or instruction related, including supporting and advocating for students who work on campus, managing events, providing essential support for academic departments, and maintaining our academic buildings and dorms.
Learn more at https://www.wawu-union.org/
Contact Jen Acker / jen@brightlinecomms.com