Bargaining Session #5

Hi folks:

Here’s your bargaining update from Erin Battat (Bargaining Committee), Jennie Carr (Organizing Committee), and Justin Armstrong (Organizing Committee)!

Bargaining Session #5 felt like a genuine conversation with movement on key proposals from both sides. Our bargaining committee presented four new proposals, all of which relate to protecting our workload and job security. We also presented five counterproposals and the College presented four (all available on our proposal tracker). After this back-and-forth, we tentatively agreed on two proposals:  Severability (read here) and Job Postings (read here). It feels great to see these marks of progress as we work towards our high priority goals! 

We encourage all our members to read our proposal on Workload (here) and to reach out to us with any questions. We are committed to fighting for an equitable teaching load and clear expectations for everyone!

Jennie: In this session, three of our members testified to the importance of academic freedom in relation to negative student feedback on the teaching of “controversial” topics. Hearing testimony from colleagues teaching in the humanities and STEM was a powerful reminder of academic freedom’s centrality to the work we do for the College, and of the personal experiences that inform the contract we’re bargaining. One of the most striking things I’ve noticed since getting involved with WOAW is just how many issues cut across disciplines and unite us as NTT faculty. Academic freedom is a great example—winning strong protections here would honor our expertise across the curriculum, while ensuring that students get access to course content that does them justice. 

Justin: A commitment to academic freedom is a core element of how and why I want to do what I do here at the College, and hearing the testimonies of my valiant colleagues made the significance of this concern crystal clear for everyone in the room. Erin, Christa and Annie’s examples resonated perfectly, and I had a distinct sense from the College representatives that these testimonies were truly inarguable evidence that protecting academic freedom is something that is non-negotiable. Additionally, as an observer, I have seen unflinchingly direct evidence of the Bargaining Committee’s preparation and incisive vision. They are doing an amazing job of fighting for what is right and just for all members of the bargaining unit. I am proud of all the work they have been doing around academic freedom and so many other key issues for NTT faculty at the College. 

While we appreciated the College’s willingness to compromise on some demands, we were disheartened to see their lack of movement on the Prohibition Against Discrimination and Harassment. Our proposal includes an expansive list of protected categories, which we believe reflects Wellesley’s mission and values. Yet the College wants to carve out what they referred to as less important categories, including citizenship status, reproductive health decision-making, and status as a victim of domestic violence. If we are going to win this and set a high standard for protecting academic workers everywhere, we need to show the administration that we are a united front. Read our letter and sign your name here to lend your support!

Our next bargaining session is Friday, June 26th, 10am-2pm. RSVP here.

Save the date for future bargaining sessions: 

Friday July 26, 10am-2pm

Friday August 2nd, 2-5pm 

August 20th, 10am-2pm