Student workers at Western Washington University prepare to hit the picket lines

Student workers at Western Washington University (WWU) are preparing for a practice picket on May 21, demanding union recognition. The Operational Student Employees (OSE) group, which encompasses positions like resident advisors and lifeguards, plans to strike on May 28 if their demands are not met. A striking 94% of OSE members voted in favor of authorizing the strike, underscoring the urgency of their cause. This movement follows a recent five-day strike by thousands of PeaceHealth workers in Bellingham, marking a period of increased labor activism in the region. The push for recognition aligns with broader trends in labor rights and worker protections, especially among student employees.

Local stakeholders may need to engage in discussions to address these labor concerns effectively. Failure to resolve these issues could lead to significant disruptions on campus. Such actions reflect a growing trend of advocacy for better working conditions among student workers nationwide.