Jacksonville, AL – The United Campus Workers at Jax State (UCW-JSU) are pressing forward in their campaign for fair wages for hourly campus workers, aiming to address what they perceive as a critical issue within Jacksonville State University (JSU). Their recent action involves a petition addressed to President Don Killingsworth, garnering significant support with over 630 signatures to date.
The petition calls for a substantial increase in minimum pay for hourly campus workers, advocating for a raise to $15 per hour by the end of 2024 and further to $17 per hour by 2025. This demand is encapsulated in their campaign slogan, “$15 to survive, $17 to thrive,” reflecting their commitment to securing livable wages for all university employees.
Numerous individuals, including current and retired JSU employees, students, alumni, and community supporters, have voiced their support for the petition, emphasizing the importance of addressing wage disparities and investing more in the university’s workforce. Concerns raised by petition signers range from stagnant wages and lack of job reclassification to the significant impact of low wages on employee turnover rates.
Workers in departments such as Buildings and Maintenance have highlighted the challenges posed by low wages, citing high rates of turnover as employees seek better-paying opportunities elsewhere. Additionally, many petition signers underscore the invaluable contributions of hourly employees to the university’s functioning, emphasizing the need for fair compensation to reflect their essential roles.
While the UCW-JSU awaits a direct response from President Killingsworth, they continue to advocate for the implementation of a living wage at JSU. The university’s announcement of a compensation study for staff and ongoing evaluations of proposals to address low faculty salaries indicate a recognition of the need for action on wage issues.
UCW-JSU remains steadfast in their commitment to fairness and dignity for all university employees. Their plan to deliver the petition to President Killingsworth underscores the urgency of the matter, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing the well-being of JSU’s workforce.
Established in August 2023, the United Campus Workers at Jax State (UCW-JSU) serve as advocates for fair wages, benefits, and working conditions for all employees at Jacksonville State University. Their mission centers on ensuring that JSU upholds the dignity and welfare of its workforce, reflecting a dedication to social justice within the university community.
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