Photo: James Rojas/WBZ NewsRadio
Updated 3/25/24 2:58 p.m.
BOSTON (WBZ NewsRadio) — Boston University graduate workers have voted to go out on strike calling for better pay and health benefits. A rally was held Monday at Marsh Plaza after negotiations with the university stalled.
In a press release, officials from SEIU Local 509 said workers are "fighting for fair pay, comprehensive health care, and stronger benefits such as child care subsidies to offset the rising costs of housing and other basic necessities in Boston."
Jaira Koh, a 3rd-year PHD graduate worker, told WBZ NewsRadio that it has "taken 8 months for us to get a real substantive response" from Boston University.
“BU’s conduct continues to signal that they do not value the contributions of the workers that keep this university running, and we are committed to supporting our members as they fight for the fair contract they deserve," David Foley, President of SEIU 509, said in a statement.
Officials from the school said their proposals have met the union's demands. They said they want to strike a balance between the needs of student workers and what the school can afford.
U.S. Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley and Senator Elizabeth Warren rallied with workers Monday afternoon.
WBZ NewsRadio's James Rojas (@JamesRojasMMJ) reports.
Follow WBZ NewsRadio: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | iHeartmedia App | TikTok