The Teamsters Local 320 union workers have strikes happening across many University of Minnesota schools. From the Twin Cities, to Crookston, Morris and right here at UMD. Over 150 employees work in maintenance, custodial, food service and other critical roles. They are on strike right as the fall semester is in full swing.
The strike has picket lines across different crosswalks at each of the intersections around the UMD campus. Students say the strike has already impacted the quality of life. UMD’s dining center is operating with reduced hours. There are limited menu options, and custodial services are reduced. Xavier Shepler is a student, and union worker at the dining center. He says the lack of a contract is impacting not only union workers’ finances and student life, but Duluth too.
“This is something that affects everyone. It affects the students here, which in turn affects the community here,” Shepler said. “There are a lot of people who are involved in the university system. Not necessarily students or even necessarily workers at the university. It’s a big part of Duluth.”
Are non-teamster-represented employees also expected to work during a strike by a bargaining unit? The university says yes, non-union workers still need to show up. In fact, according to university’s website, the Public Employment Labor Relations Act (PERLA), which governs public sector labor relations, declares sympathy strikes to be illegal. Stating, “public employees who strike in violation of this section may have their appointment or employment terminated by the employer effective the date the violation first occurs.”
Teamsters Local 320 President Erik Skoog says the union workers are striking for a 3.5% or higher wage increase. University of Minnesota’s last offer before the strike was a 3% wage increase. At the moment, the University of Minnesota said there is no set date for another negotiation session.
“We’re out until the University of Minnesota system realizes that they’ve been very disrespectful for a number of years with their employees,” Skoog said. “We’re going to be out here, the employees are going to be out here and the teamsters are going to be out here. Until they understand and realize what a good Teamster contract is what this is about.”
Also WDIO News did receive a statement from the University of Minnesota.
Statement from University of Minnesota
The University of Minnesota offered Teamsters a fair and equitable contract that addresses their priorities.
The University’s proposed wage increases align to what most University employees are eligible to receive. The proposal includes two $500 lump-sum payments for all Teamsters-represented employees. As well as increased shift differentials for those working non-standard hours, and market adjustments retroactive to July 1, 2025 for those in specific positions. In addition, the University offered to take steps to ensure a respectful workplace and extend hold assignments for those on a leave of absence from six to 10 weeks.
The Teamsters misrepresented this offer to the public and the University employees it represents. Our Last, Best and Final Offer balances a good-faith commitment to our employees and the University’s responsibility to be good financial stewards at a time when higher education faces profound financial challenges.
No additional benefits are available to offer to the Teamsters. The University of Minnesota is committed to reaching an agreement with Teamsters Local 320.
Source: wdio.com
