Striking UIC grad workers rally for higher pay as some say they struggle to afford groceries and rent
Graduate student workers at the University of Illinois Chicago went on strike due to failed contract negotiations with administrators, citing low wages and unaffordable living costs. The union demands a higher minimum salary of $38,000 for a nine-month contract, compared to the university's offer of a 2% raise to $24,200.
The University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) graduate student workers, represented by the Graduate Employees Organization, began a strike after a year of negotiations with administrators failed to yield a contract. The union cites key issues including wages, health insurance, and protections for international workers. Graduate workers at UIC teach classes and conduct research, earning a minimum of $24,200 for a nine-month contract. The university offered a 2% raise, but the union demands a salary of $38,000, citing comparable private colleges in the area that pay nearly double. Classes continue during the strike, with the university stating it will minimize disruption. The union and administrators have met for 29 bargaining sessions, with two more scheduled.
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