UAW and Cornell University Reach Tentative Agreement

The Facts -

UAW Members Secure Historic Agreement at Cornell University

ITHACA – UAW members at Cornell University have secured a historic tentative agreement, featuring record wage increases of up to 25.4%, a cost of living adjustment, and the removal of the two-tier wage system. This deal introduces significant improvements to policies on time off, uniforms, inclement weather, and safety protections. This follows an unfair labor practice strike by Cornell workers, compelling the university to offer a fair contract.

“Workers at Cornell were fed up with being exploited and disrespected,” said UAW Local 2300 President Christine Johnson. “This agreement will mean a better life for the people who make Cornell run.”

The membership, including maintenance and facilities workers, dining workers, gardeners, custodians, agriculture, and horticulture workers, have faced declining real wages despite Cornell’s endowment ballooning 39% to nearly $10 billion and tuition increasing 13% over four years. Meanwhile, workers' buying power has fallen 5%.

Many workers have had to move out of Ithaca to afford housing and must pay expensive parking fees to park on campus. The average wage at the university is less than $22 per hour, far lower than the estimated cost for a family to live in the region. Top administrators' compensation exceeded $12.4 million in 2022.

For weeks, workers ramped up their campaign to win a record contract. They organized red shirt days and held multiple rallies across campus, with community leaders and elected officials often joining to show support.

On August 16, members voted by 94% to authorize a strike and walked out at 10:00 pm on Sunday, August 18, sending a clear message to Cornell that workers would stand up against low-ball tactics.

“The workers at Cornell used their power to push back on Cornell’s arrogance and win a great contract,” said UAW Region 9 Director Daniel Vicente. “They stood together and showed the university they were willing to do what was needed to win what they deserve.”

The membership will vote to ratify the package on Sunday, Sept. 1 and Monday, Sept 2.

Cornell University workers join other UAW members standing up to the billionaire class. Thousands of UAW members have won record contracts recently. Learn more about UAW victories.

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