The United Labor of Tufts Resident Assistants (ULTRA), represented by the Office and Professional Employees International Union (OPEIU) Local 153, are set to begin a strike on Tuesday, August 29, after months of negotiating with university officials who refuse to make any response to their demand for wages as compensation for their work.

Eighty-nine percent of ULTRA members voted on the afternoon of Wednesday, August 23 to authorize a strike if the university fails to meet the union’s demand for wage compensation in the form of a stipend. Up to this point, the only form of compensation RAs receive is on-campus housing during the academic year.

In last week’s bargaining session, the university made threats of a lockout, of replacing members of the unit, and of charging them for their rooms, thereby threatening the housing security of the student workers. Also during this session, the administration sent an email to the entire student body threatening retaliation against union members for engaging in their right to collective action. In response to this email, the union has filed an Unfair Labor Practice (ULP) charge with the NLRB. On Sunday evening, the members voted unanimously to authorize a ULP strike.

"I work overnight shifts at the hospital in addition to holding three other jobs on campus and being an RA,” says Aria Ma, an ULTRA member and a junior in the Tufts dual degree program. “I spread myself too thin and I am still barely getting by. It's disappointing to see that Tufts doesn't care enough about us to provide a living wage."

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As the 2024 presidential campaign heats up, OPEIU wants to know what you think.

We’ve set up an online poll so you can weigh in. Do you think OPEIU should endorse a presidential candidate, and if so, who should we endorse? Which candidate do you feel has the needs and concerns of working families at the top of their agenda?

Just click on the link to visit the poll to cast your vote.

Why is this important? As a democratic union, OPEIU wants this to be an open, member-driven endorsement process. We want to make sure EVERY member has the opportunity to participate, so the poll will remain open until August 28. You can help get the word out by sharing the poll with other OPEIU members after you take it.

Make sure your voice is heard. Cast your vote today.

In solidarity,

The OPEIU Team

Dear OPEIU Members and Family:

Here is an update on recent developments regarding the OPEIU Free College Benefit, as well as introduction to an exciting opportunity for our union members and their families.

We understand there has been uncertainty surrounding the Free College Benefit for continuing students and are sad to say, due to a decision by the Department of Education, the benefit is no longer available to you and your family. While this may be disappointing news, we believe change often brings new and exciting opportunities.

Our new union college benefit option offers up to 50 percent discounted tuition rates and still applies to your federal grant awards to reduce your out-of-pocket costs even further.

OPEIU’s Discount College Benefit offers flexibility and numerous options for union members and their families to further their education. The program’s extensive network of colleges and universities is comprised of accredited institutions committed to providing discounted tuition rates to our union members and their families, ensuring accessibility and affordability for higher education. Whether you are interested in pursuing an associate, bachelor’s or master’s degree, or are seeking to enhance your professional skills with undergraduate or graduate certificates, the program has a comprehensive range of more than 50 online degree programs and certificate offerings.