AFSCME Local 370 Secures New Contract with Raises and Parental Leave

AFSCME Local 370 Secures Landmark Contract for SIU-SOM Employees

In a significant development for the workforce at Southern Illinois University School of Medicine (SIU-SOM), members of AFSCME Local 370 have successfully negotiated a new contract, marking a major victory for better wages and employee benefits. This agreement comes after a rigorous negotiation process that began in April 2025.

The primary objectives outlined by the union members included securing higher wages and establishing a longevity pay system to reward long-serving employees. Despite initial resistance from management, who argued that compensation should be based on market analysis rather than tenure, the union's persistence paid off.

"We needed to show them that what makes the SIU-SOM work is not just the six-figure doctors — it’s all of us," stated Local 370 President Gina Darden. "It’s the nurses, the front desk workers, the call center workers. We had to make them understand that keeping this place running as well as it does takes all of us."

The turning point came when members actively participated in an SIU Board of Trustees meeting in June 2025, emphasizing the need for more competitive and sustainable wages. However, with management still unyielding, the union escalated their efforts by organizing a large rally and informational picket, gaining the support of students and faculty.

This show of solidarity eventually led to a breakthrough. By November, an agreement was reached, doubling the monetary benefits initially proposed by management, with some employees receiving wage increases up to 14%.

In addition to pay raises, the new contract introduces a paid parental leave policy for the first time and guarantees paid time off for voting, enhancing the benefits package for all employees.

This contract represents a triumph not only for the employees who help keep SIU-SOM operational but also for the patients who rely on their dedicated care every day.

For more information about AFSCME Council 31, visit their official site here.