Well, we’re three weeks into the semester and so far, we’ve survived! Let’s celebrate with a free screening of “The Revolutionist: Eugene V. Debs,” on February 12th at 6 pm in Forum AB in the Burge Union. The screening will be followed by a panel discussion featuring the producer of the film, the president of the Debs Foundation, and American Studies faculty and graduate students. Free food and non-alcoholic beverages will be served.
Alternately loved and reviled, Eugene V. Debs was a passionate labor leader and five-time candidate for the US Presidency. Among his other notorious accomplishments, Debs helped found the IWW, led the nationwide Pullman Strike in 1894, and won almost a million votes for the Presidency while sitting in a prison cell for anti-war speech in 1920. Debs has frequently been cited as the inspiration for Bernie Sanders, who has called Debs “the most effective and popular leader that the American working class has ever had.”
Also, as we enter contract negotiations, it’s time to take the biannual unit survey! This is the quickest and easiest way to let your Negotiations Team know what to prioritize as we “go to the table” and negotiate our pay, healthcare, and working conditions, including course fees and funds for travel. Please take our online survey to inform our priorities!
In 2018, our GTAC Negotiations Team was able to fight for and win a three-year series of raises for all GTAs, paid sick and family leave, increased worker’s rights and protections, and much more we’re back at it again this semester! We’re looking forward to fighting for a living wage, a fair healthcare subsidy, and other priority changes. To achieve these goals, we need Researchers, Writers, and Tablers to join our 2020 Negotiations Team. Click here to find out more!
Speaking of our contract, it’s a good time to ask yourself: Do you know your contract? In addition to your individualized contracts which you periodically sign, all GTAs also have an overarching 35-page contract with the University of Kansas which outlines your rights and responsibilities as a GTA. Come to GTA Contract 101 (with free dinner!) to find our more on Thursday, March 19th at 6pm at the ECM at 1204 Oread. RSVP here!
To recap, join us for the Debs documentary screening and panel on Wednesday, February 12th, take the GTAC unit survey and find out more about your Negotiations Team, and come to GTA Contract 101 (with free dinner!) on Thursday, March 19th at 6pm at the ECM at 1204 Oread!
In solidarity,
Graduate Teaching Assistants Coalition
AFT Local 6403, AFL-CIO