Graduate Employees at University of Pennsylvania to Vote on Unionization on May 1 and 2

Graduate Employees Together University of Pennsylvania-UAW (GET-UP) is gearing up for a historic vote on May 1 and 2 to determine whether graduate student workers at the University of Pennsylvania will form a union. The election, which was originally scheduled for April but postponed due to a ruling from the National Labor Relations Board, will take place in Bodek Lounge in Houston Hall.

If the vote passes, GET-UP will become the largest union at Penn in recent history, representing about 4,500 workers. The formation of a union would allow all graduate student workers to participate in the bargaining process and vote on the ratification of any proposed contract.

The push for unionization comes as graduate student workers face increasing housing and living costs in Philadelphia, a lack of rights in the workplace, and uncertainty about their futures. GET-UP aims to improve working conditions, secure better compensation, and advocate for policies that protect graduate students against discrimination.

Despite the challenges and delays leading up to the election, GET-UP organizers remain optimistic about the outcome. With the support of 224 Penn faculty members and a strong backing from the American Association of University Professors, graduate student workers are determined to win the election and secure representation by the United Auto Workers.

The ballots will be counted, and the results will be announced on May 3. Stay tuned for updates on this pivotal moment for graduate student workers at the University of Pennsylvania.