On Sunday, the United Campus Workers Virginia (“UCWVA”) chapter at UVA held a town hall on the state of wages for UVA staff and student workers. About two dozen community members gathered in the Central Branch Library’s Swanson Room to speak about their concerns with pay under the University. The union had members present to articulate the goals of their upcoming Living Wage campaign.
UCWVA representatives began with a round of speeches by five members highlighting their newest initiative. A graphic designer for the University — who asked to be referred to only as Julia — introduced attendees to the team assembled to alleviate struggles faced by workers: “We are your local campus workers union, and we are working to make UVA the best it can be. The best school, the best workplace, and the best community partner: through solidarity and collaboration,” Julia explained, “which is why today we are proud to announce the launch of our new Living Wage campaign.”
During this initial presentation, the union emphasized its history of fighting for higher wages, citing past victories for UVA workers’ unions as proof of their efficacy. Though never officially acknowledged by the University, faculty and student workers succeeded in bringing the minimum wage for UVA jobs from $6.50 in 1998 to $15 in 2020 through protests and community outreach. The union’s efforts even included a 2012 hunger strike, which garnered nationwide attention. Though today there is no active bargaining between UVA and its staff, UCWVA says community involvement is necessary to keep wages comparable to the rising cost of living…