We formed our union to ensure that we have a stronger (and legally protected!) voice in shaping our working conditions and securing the fair contract we deserve. Yet SAIC administration refuses to safeguard our job security, provide us with sustainable pathways to promotion, offer reasonable access to benefits, or extend the resources necessary for our pedagogical and professional practices. We know that this institution prioritizes optics over equity because we teach the vast majority of its courses, yet our community and our labor continue to be disrespected.

AICWU Faculty never want to strike, but after four years of pandemic-era austerity contracts and 16 months of negotiations—only to be offered the status quo—we are at our limit. This pledge symbolizes our solidarity in demanding the wages, benefits, and protections we need to have a fair shake at building more stable lives. Should the administration continue to deny us a fair contract and AICWU authorize a strike vote, I commit to standing alongside my fellow NTT faculty, and voting “YES!”