Students from 23 California State University campuses are listening when it comes to the topic of an upcoming strike. The California Faculty Association is threatening to walk off the job unless the CSU campuses raise wages by 5 percent.
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| 23 CSU campuses partaking in the strike for higher wages. |
An email was sent out by President Zingg to Chico State students, faculty and staff on Feb. 24 reminding them of what this upcoming strike will entail for them. Recipients who received this email are aware that the campus will remain open, however, individuals should check with their professors to see if their classes will still be held, said Zingg.
Students are concerned that the strike may affect their ability to graduate or interfere with their schoolwork. The answer is no. The president of the union said what happens in April will have long-term repercussions.
Jennifer Eagan, president of the California Faculty Association stated, “This is a historic strike if it happens. It will impact CSU for a long time.”
Chico State students have different ideas about what they will do if they have April 13-15 and April 18-19 off. Some say that potential class cancellations is a reason to drink. However, other students are planning to use this time to support their professors and focus on their schoolwork.
“This semester, I am swamped with loads of schoolwork. On top of that, my work schedule is extremely hectic. I support all professors during this strike, however I am relieved to possibly have these days to focus on getting a lot done to relieve some stress,” said Chico State senior Kelli Brennecke.
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| Chico State Senior Kelli Brennecke. |
Although instructors will be canceling classes, many have planned assignments to keep their students on track with course material, said Zingg, they are encouraged to not take part in the protest that will be held outside of Kendall Hall.
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| Kendall Hall on CSU Chico's campus is decided to be the location for the upcoming strike. |
“Classes will be canceled, and we will talk with our students and tell them we will not be there. Students will understand that faculty have been fighting for good conditions for a lot of years, and they share our concerns,” Chico State professor and California Faculty Association treasurer Susan Green said in a ChicoER article.
While many students are excited about the prospect of having free time to get work done, other students are planning to relieve stress in a much different way during their “free days.”
“I am indifferent when it comes to raising wages for professors. I’m excited to have a break in my week to drink and hang out with my friends during this strike if it were to occur,” said Sonoma State Junior Steve Durante.
Students should be aware that this strike is a tactic faculty and staff are using to negotiate a raise in wages. However, if universities agree to a 5 percent wage increase before the protest dates in April, there will be no need for a strike and classes will be held, said CFA.
By Nikki St. Laurent