UM Librarians, Archivists, and Curators win First Contract
On Friday, July 29th, LEO-GLAM, the union of librarians, archivists, and curators (LACs) at the University of Michigan, announced ratification of their first contract. LACs joined the Lecturers’ Employee Organization, AFT Local 6244, in 2021 and an overwhelming majority of librarians, archivists, and curators participated in the contract campaign.
The contract secures many gains, including the establishment of minimum salaries with parity across all three campuses; an overall increase of 17% to bargaining unit salaries and progress toward addressing historical salary inequities, with raises ranging from 9% to more than 30% for the lowest paid members. LACs will have their faculty status codified, including recognition of the right to academic freedom; clarified policies for workload, remote work, and accessible and safe workspaces; as well as guaranteed access to professional development funds.
Congratulations to GLAM, our bargaining team, and the entire LEO leadership on this excellent first contract.
Chavez Unit Wins Raises and Arbitration Decision
The Michigan Alliance of Charter School Teachers and Staff (MIACTS) chapter at Cesar Chavez Academy ratified a five-year contract that includes a 5% increase in the first year, subsequent increases to the base salary based on ratings, and an increased salary cap of $82,000. The chapter also gained an increase in accrual of PTO days from 10 to 21 days. In addition to their contract, CCA ACTS won a recent arbitration case stating that classroom teachers with substitute permits are included in the bargaining unit. The employer must now recognize substitutes are represented by the union, provide notice to the entire unit, and reinstate payroll deduction of dues for staff requesting check off. This arbitration win expands union representation to dozens of educators at CCA. Congratulations to President Eva Coleman and all of our Chavez members.
AFTers Campaign for Roberson and Levin
AFT Michigan members have been working to put Portia Roberson in the 13th Congressional District and Andy Levin in the 11th District over the top in tomorrow’s primary election.
Detroit Federation of Teachers President and AFT Michigan Secretary-Treasurer Terrence Martin, DFT Vice President Lakia Wilson and I joined Saturday’s rally in support of Portia where the candidate highlighted the AFT Michigan endorsement. The rally featured native Detroiter, former congressman and current Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison and was followed by calling and canvassing for Portia.
The Levin campaign noted the number of AFT Michigan volunteers knocking on doors and calling for Andy. Sunday morning I joined Henry Ford Community College Federation of Teachers President Eric Rader going door to door in Royal Oak.
Please make sure everyone you know votes Tuesday, August 2. Polls are open 7am-8pm and you can check out our endorsed candidates here.
Michigan Supreme Court Rules Civil Rights Act Includes Sexual Orientation
The elected Michigan Supreme Court has ruled that the Michigan Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act’s prohibitions against discrimination in housing, employment and public accommodations apply to sexual orientation. The vote was 5 – 2 with all four Democrats being joined by Republican Justice Clement.
Elections matter!
Contribute to the AFT Michigan PAC Today
AFT Michigan fights for our members, students and communities all year round and we need your help. Can you donate $1 a week to aid us in this fight? Please visit the AFT Michigan website to contribute and make a big difference in protecting public education and building a better Michigan future!
Grillin’ With The Governor
Join Governor Gretchen Whitmer at Grillin’ with Gretchen & Garlin in Detroit on Wednesday, August 3rd. There will be food and outdoor activities, as well as time to hear from Governor Whitmer! The location will be shared the day prior to the event. Sign up here: Grillin’ with Gretchen in Detroit · ONECampaign for Michigan (mobilize.us)
In solidarity,
David Hecker
President
