UC Academic Workers Extend Strike in Response to Pro-Palestinian Tensions

University of California academic workers broaden strike efforts in reaction to alleged rights violations during pro-Palestinian protests, as tensions escalate on campuses. The expansions involve major UC campuses such as San Diego, Santa Barbara, and Irvine.

Expanded Strikes by UC Academic Workers Amid Pro-Palestinian Tensions

On May 31, 2024, academic workers at several University of California (UC) campuses broadened their strike efforts, escalating ongoing labor tensions. The UC union, representing 48,000 graduate teaching assistants, researchers, and related academic staff, announced this expansion, involving UC San Diego, UC Santa Barbara, and UC Irvine. This move follows earlier walkouts at UC Santa Cruz, UCLA, and UC Davis. The strikes began in response to UC's actions during recent pro-Palestinian protests and encampment shutdowns, which union leaders argue violated workers' rights.

In mid-May, union members voted to strike, citing alleged violations of free speech rights during police crackdowns on pro-Palestinian demonstrations, including incidents at UCLA where police took hours to respond to a mob attacking protesters. The University of California claims the strike breaches a “no-strike” clause in the union's contract, while the union maintains that the strike is rooted in unfair labor practice charges.

On May 30, police in riot gear entered UC Santa Cruz, arresting pro-Palestinian protesters who had set up an encampment blocking the campus entrance. The administration had given multiple warnings before the arrest. The union affirms its commitment to the strike, demanding that UC address these labor practice violations and drop criminal charges against its members.

These strikes coincide with final exams, a critical period where the duties of the academic workers are essential. The UC system and the union are currently engaged in mediation through the state’s Public Employees Relation Board, which recently denied UC’s request to halt the strike.

MIT Commencement Amid Protests and Security Measures

On the same day, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) held its commencement ceremony amidst heightened security and recent protests. The event, led by MIT President Sally Kornbluth, took place on Killian Court with metal barricades and increased police presence. This follows a tumultuous academic year marked by protests over Israel’s actions in Gaza, incidents of antisemitism and Islamophobia, and internal political controversies.

The ceremony came shortly after a police raid ended a pro-Palestinian encampment at MIT, leading to the suspension of approximately 20 student protesters. This year's commencement season has seen similar protests at other universities, reflecting broader national tensions.

These events at both the UC and MIT underscore ongoing conflicts within American universities regarding labor rights, political activism, and campus security.