Disappointed

The LTE reform meeting was not what I’d hoped for. I was disappointed. I know that it’s an accomplishment that people were willing to sit around a table and talk about the issue, which has probably never been done on this campus before. I should focus on that. On the other hand, I thought it was focused on protecting the rights of union workers and not focused on how we could all give up a little bit to encourage equity for limited term employees. Even the living wage issue was not well received because we couldn’t have LTEs making more than what union-represented permanent workers make…

Overall the way it came across to me was they are interested in protecting LTEs as long as it means securing additional permanent union-represented positions, but not specifically interested in LTE rights in any sense (the statement “it’s about the position, not the person” was repeated numerous times).

In addition there was a lot of time spent talking about a manual they made which basically consists of screen captures educating LTEs about how to apply for jobs on the Wisc site…and discussion of interviewing skills and other things. I understand these things are helpful but I don’t think that gets at the real issues…50% of our LTEs have college degrees. Many have applied for numerous jobs. I think we all know this isn’t about teaching people how to buff up their resumes or interview better. But, I also lack a complete understanding of all the politics and complexities involved….and at this point I’m starting to feel like I’m not sure I want to understand any more if I am going to hold on to any sort of a positive attitude. Anyway, that’s my take on it….

An update on "limited term" employee reform

In an earlier post I wrote about my involvement in LTE reform issues for the approximately 200 "limited term" positions here on campus in which people work long term for low wages and minimal benefits. The latest development was a May article in the campus newspaper highlighting our work in this area.

After that article was published I was contacted by some folks at UW-Madison, where they have a comprehensive LTE reform plan, about coming to our campus for discussions on how we might achieve what they have. And now it's a reality! The following link to a press release describes the meeting that will take place on our campus next week. I view this as a true milestone as we've never gotten this far in our discussions of this very sensitive topic on our campus. I'll keep you updated. Regardless of what happens, I feel lucky to be part of something so important, as it has the potential to improve working conditions for so many people.

http://www.uwec.edu/newsreleases/10/july/0707LTEAdvisoryCommittee.htm