The Rutgers Strike of 2021 was a significant event in the history of labor relations in the United States. The strike, which lasted for four days, involved more than 5,000 unionized workers at Rutgers University, including faculty, staff, and graduate students. The strike was called by the Rutgers AAUP-AFT, the union that represents these workers, in response to the university’s refusal to negotiate a new contract that would address issues such as pay equity, job security, and health care.
The Rutgers Strike took place against the backdrop of a broader national debate about the role of unions in American society. In recent years, labor unions have been under attack from conservative politicians and business interests, who argue that they are outdated and unnecessary. However, many workers and labor advocates believe that unions are essential for protecting workers’ rights and ensuring that they receive fair wages and benefits.
One of the key issues at the heart of the Rutgers Strike was pay equity. The union argued that many workers at Rutgers, particularly women and people of color, were being paid less than their colleagues for doing the same work. This is a common problem in many workplaces across the country, and it highlights the need for stronger laws and regulations to ensure that workers are paid fairly.
Another issue raised by the Rutgers Strike was job security. Many workers at Rutgers are employed on a contingent basis, meaning that they do not have job security or benefits such as health care or retirement plans. The union argued that these workers should be given more job security and benefits, so that they can support themselves and their families.
The Rutgers Strike also highlighted the importance of health care for workers. The union argued that many workers at Rutgers were struggling to afford health care, and that the university should provide better coverage for its employees. This is a particularly important issue in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has highlighted the importance of access to health care for all workers.
Overall, the Rutgers Strike was an important moment in the ongoing struggle for workers’ rights in the United States. It highlighted the need for stronger laws and regulations to protect workers, and it demonstrated the power of collective action by workers and their unions. As the country continues to grapple with the economic and social impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is more important than ever to ensure that workers are treated fairly and have access to the benefits and protections they need to thrive.
