Organizing Update

State University of New York – College of Environmental Science and Forestry

On Wednesday, a majority of graduate student Research Assistants at the State University of New York (SUNY) College of Environmental Science and Forestry (ESF) voted to join CWA. They have been mobilizing to build support for their union since they announced the formation of the ESF Research Assistants Union-CWA in March and to put pressure on the university administration to address their demands for better working conditions and a union.

Despite the essential role they play, these workers have been saddled with severe economic hardships resulting from low pay and burdensome student fees, as well as poor working conditions, including lack of affordable and adequate healthcare coverage, workplace harassment, and being overworked without additional compensation. Following their victory, the workers are determined to continue to fight until they reach a first contract that reflects the value they bring to the institution.