Over the past month, the University has witnessed the launch of two student dining worker unionization campaigns under the umbrella of a single union. Known as Wesleyan Dining Workers United (WesDWU), the union now represents a large majority of the estimated 250 student dining workers employed at various Bon Appétit dining locations, as well as at Red & Black Cafe (RBC) and WesWings (Swings).
According to union representatives at UNITE HERE Local 217, a labor union which represents the full-time unionized Bon Appétit workers, roughly 230 student workers have joined WesDWU. From demonstrations to letters to the administration, student workers across Wesleyan’s cafés, dining halls, and restaurants have banded together in pursuit of fundamental labor rights, including higher wages and better working conditions. However, since the union’s first rally on Tuesday, April 4, several key developments have been made within each of the campaigns, sparking widespread confusion among the student body.
As the union continues its organizing efforts, The Argus has spoken extensively with students, staff, and management in order to gain an understanding of what exactly is happening, and importantly, what is at stake for all of the parties involved. Below, The Argus has answered all the questions you may have about Wesleyan’s latest student labor union.
What does the process of unionizing entail?
According to the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), a union may be formed in one of...
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