WSU Student workers could go on strike before final exams, end of semester

Unionized student workers at Washington State University (WSU) are preparing to strike if key demands surrounding wages, health insurance, and workload are not addressed before the end of the semester. The strike could bring significant disruptions to university functions, as graduate student workers are responsible for grading papers, conducting classes, and managing lab sessions. Acacia Patterson, a member of the Academic Student Employees (ASEs) bargaining committee, emphasized the crucial nature of their work and the chaos a strike would create, reflecting their frustrations with the university's treatment of student workers. WSU's Vice President for Marketing and Communications, Phil Weiler, expressed disappointment at the potential strike, emphasizing that negotiations have been progressing. The ASE union has previously filed an unfair labor practice complaint against WSU, alleging that the university has not engaged in good faith negotiations.

The Washington State Public Employment Relations Commission is investigating this complaint, raising concerns about the university's bargaining practices. As the deadline for agreement approaches, the stakes are high for both the student workers and the university administration. The outcome of these negotiations will significantly impact the academic environment at WSU and the livelihoods of its student workers.