How to get the answers you need on our union
This is the final week before our Sunday, April 7 deadline, and we’re asking every staff member in Student and Instructional Services to make a decision by then about our union. We’ll need a majority of that group to sign cards in order to gain official recognition and the right to a say in the decisions that affect our lives and work.
If you haven’t yet signed up, of course we hope you’ll join and be counted along with 750+ others. But even if you decide you’d rather not have a recognized union, we want to know that too and we’ll respect your decision. USU is about bringing democracy to the workplace! And if you already have signed your card, take a moment this week to let a coworker know why you did. You can help them feel a bit less alone.
As you’re making up your mind, we’ve got a ton of opportunities to get your questions answered or just to talk out this decision:
- Check out the issues staff have been talking about most on our website
- Read our Frequently Asked Questions
- Send a message from a volunteer Organizing Committee member to set up a time to talk, or tell us the best way to reach you
- Stop by our office hours at the following times and places:
- Tuesday, 11am-1pm, LSA Building, Ann Arbor
- Wednesday, 11am-1pm, Duderstadt Atrium / Mujo Cafe, Ann Arbor North Campus
- Wednesday, 12pm-1pm, Zoom (Contact us to ask for meeting info)
- Thursday, 11am-1pm, Palmer Commons Windows Lounge, Ann Arbor
- Friday, 3-4pm, University Center, Dearborn
- Join us for happy hour at Ashley’s on State St. in Ann Arbor, Friday 5-7pm. RSVP here.
Once you make your decision, you can sign your union card here (don’t put it off!) or you can let us know won’t be signing a card at this time by filling out this form.
It’s Safe to Sign!
Did you know that signing your union card is confidential? Your name and signature will be stored in a database only the union organizers can access. When we file for recognition, a neutral third party will verify employees’ signed cards; University management does not receive the list.
Once we have won our first contract and begun receiving all the benefits we’ve earned, University payroll will see that you are a member – this is when dues will begin to be withdrawn. Of course, we’ll only reach this point once a majority of staff in our group sign up, so you’ll be in good company.
Join us on LinkedIn!
University Staff United recently started a group on LinkedIn and we’d like to see you there! Join us to discuss work related issues and share with the community: University Staff United at the University of Michigan.
Everything you need to Know about House Calls
Spring is here, and our campaign is in full swing! Our goal is to talk with each and every staff member in the Academic, Student, and Instructional Services Job families this Spring before our deadline in early April. These one-to-one conversations give staff a chance to tell their stories, and help organizers learn more about the experiences staff have in our workplace. USU organizers will be visiting homes and reaching out to individual staff via email and social media. For some staff, a visit at home is the only way to feel safe enough to talk. Follow this link to read some FAQs about house calls.
Staff Voices
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Tell Your Story
One of the best ways to help others feel at ease in joining the union effort is to share your story about why you support USU. Please fill out this form or contact us to set up an interview.
Upcoming Events
Friday 4/5: LEO Open Bargaining in Ann Arbor
Join union siblings of all types to observe union bargaining with management. Open bargaining will take place from 10am-1pm at the Palmer Commons and lunch will be provided. Learn what a union can fight for and how we win! Review the LEO Lecturer Bargaining Platform Summary in advance. RSVP for LEO Open Bargaining here.
Friday 4/5: USU Social Hour
USU will be hosting a social hour for members, organizers, and interested members at 5pm at Ashley’s on state street. Join us to chat about our union and meet other members! This is a great opportunity to put a face to a name, get familiar with the people who make up our union, and get any questions answered if you’re hesitant about signing your card before the 4/7 deadline. RSVP for the USU Social Hour here.
AFT Michigan International Workers Caucus – 2nd Monday of Each Month
AFT-Michigan invites you to join fellow international workers to discuss challenges of being a visa holder in the workplace. Join us and build a space for community, conversation, and action around immigration issues for international workers. USU members & potential members are eligible to attend! We will hold monthly meetings on the 2nd Monday of each month. Our next meeting is Monday, April 8th at 5pm EST. RSVP here
Paint the Rock w/ USU – Postponed to April 13th at 1pm
Gather with fellow staff at UM to join in a fun University of Michigan tradition – painting the rock! Join us on Saturday April 13th at 1pm to paint the rock in USU colors, celebrate our wins, and build union camaraderie. Paint supplies will be provided, but bring paint rollers and paint trays if you have them! Join us for this family friendly event – RSVP here.
Info Sessions & Drop-In Hours
Virtual Session
Every Thursday at 6:30pm
Contact us to ask for meeting info
Weekly Drop-in – Lunch Hour
Wednesdays 12-1pm
Contact us to ask for meeting info
Weekly Drop-in – After Hours
Tuesdays 6:30-7:30pm
Contact us to ask for meeting info