Hundreds of service workers at the University of Minnesota could continue strike through weekend

Over 1,400 service workers at the University of Minnesota began a strike this week after rejecting a final contract offer from the university that proposed a 3% pay increase. The Teamsters union, which represents custodial, maintenance, food service, and sanitation workers, is advocating for a 3. 5% wage hike to align with other union contracts. The strike commenced Monday night and has resulted in significant disruptions to dining services and deliveries across various campuses. University officials have raised alarms about some picketers blocking essential deliveries and threatening temporary workers.

This strike is unprecedented in recent university history and highlights ongoing tensions following tuition hikes and job cuts at the U. The university justified the cuts and tuition increases by citing reduced federal research support and stagnant state funding. As of now, there is no scheduled date for negotiations to resume, and the Teamsters have indicated they won't return to the bargaining table until their wage concerns are addressed. The situation poses challenges for students and faculty alike, as many are feeling the immediate effects of the strike.