Cornell UAW Local 2300 Members Go On Strike

Following a breakdown of contract negotiations, members of the UAW Local 2300 at Cornell University have officially gone on strike.

The Ivy-League University offered a 15.5% wage increase over four years and an adjustment to the annual cost-of-living. UAW 2300 countered with a 25% increase in wages and getting rid of tiered wages entirely. Cornell failed to respond by the 10pm deadline, triggering the strike that was approved by 94% of Union members. 

“UAW has brought all its resources to the table in a good faith effort to reach an equitable deal.” said Daniel Vicente, a member of UAW Region 9. “This strike is a direct result of University management not valuing its employees and treating working class people like they are an expendable afterthought.”

The strike coincides with student move-in day, amplifying the effect it has on day-to-day operation around campus. UAW President Shawn Fain and New York Senator Kirsten Gillibrand have contacted Cornell’s Interim President urging for a solution.

In a statement following the beginning of the strike, Cornell University’s Vice President Christine Lovely said, “The university and the UAW have had a productive labor-management relationship for more than 40 years, and we are committed to the continued success of this relationship and to reaching our next agreement.”