Columbia Faculty letter in support of graduate workers of Columbia

Geochemistry

Associate Professor, Department of Medicine I support the right of graduate students at Columbia to unionize and negotiate their benefits and contract. I don't believe that unionization will reduce the relationship of graduate students to the faculty that instruct them to "ordinary terms of employment," as the Provost has argued.

PGI/Lamont Research Professor I strongly support the right of grad students at Columbia to unionize. They have a right to act collectively to negotiate with the University, improve their work conditions, benefits, etc. and address grievances. The ability to associate freely to advance shared interests and address shared concerns is a fundamental feature of democracy that has been fought for over decades. It is deeply ironic that Columbia, which presents itself as a beacon of reason, knowledge, enlightenment and tolerance would act to undermine a basic tenet of democracy. Columbia should recognize the union and negotiate in good faith.

The administration is totally out of touch here. Our students do the heavy lifting and deserve a seat at the table. Bargain with them already.

Ritt Assistant Professor, Mathematics Dept

I support a fundamental right, which must be granted on campuses as well

Professor of Epidemiology, MSPH

Freedom of association is protected by the Bill of Rights. Dignity--please dignify the graduates' vote and give them the respect they deserve. They are on the threshold of becoming our colleagues.

Solidarity from a CUNY grad student and TC employee!

Associate Professor, Political Science, Barnard College

Professor of English and Comparative Literature

Professor of Italian

Professor of Philosophy and African-American Studies

Department of English & Comparative Literature

R. Gordon Hoxie Professor of History, Emerita

CC 95

Associate Professor, Department of History

Institute for the Study of Human Rights

Lucyle Hook Professor, English and Africana Studies

MESAAS