Taking a Stand: U Strike Enters Week Three

Even though it hurts them financially, University of Minnesota workers Jesse Gamble and Andy Carhert said Monday the strike against their employer is a matter of principle.

“Financially, I’m not doing well. I’m borrowing money from friends,” said Carhert, who, like Gamble, is a clerical worker at the University’s Minnesota Population Center. “Still, I’m feeling good about picketing.”

The two workers are among an estimated 3,500 clerical, technical and health care workers who walked off the job nine days ago over a wage-increase dispute. The workers, who are represented by the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees, or AFCSME, want more than the 2.25 to 2.5 percent increase offered by the university.

They demand a 3.25 percent increase-the amount allocated by the state legislature for the university workers.

“What the university is doing is not about pay,” said Carhert, “It’s about busting the union. Therefore, we have to take a stand.”

This strike is only the second at the university in more than 60 years. Wielding his “On Strike” placard, Gamble said it’s a victory for him and others to stand up for what they deserve.

“It’s kind of a hard to be standing here all day, knowing that I didn’t gain anything, but I realize that it’s the ethical thing to do,” he said. “We’ve no hostility against the university. In fact, we want to make the university a better place.”

On Monday, strikers were picketing at more than 30 locations around campus. The university said the strike didn’t affect its operations.

Crossing the picket line

Many AFCSME members have crossed the picket line. Gamble and Carhert said they were disappointed with their fellow workers who stayed behind.

“I’ve a mixed feeling about them,” said Carhert of those who crossed the picket line. “I know that how I treat them will change.”

Gamble said though he understands their decision, he still feels a letdown.

With no sight to ending the strike anytime soon, Carhert, a homeowner, said he filed an application with the union for help with paying the mortgage. Gamble said his roommate and girlfriend are coming to his aid.