California State University Faculty Threaten Systemwide Strike Over Pay Dispute

Union representing 29,000 workers across 23 campuses demands 12% pay raise, far exceeding school's 5% offer.

Faculty at California State University, the largest public university system in the U.S., could stage a systemwide strike later this month after school officials ended contract negotiations with a unilateral offer of a 5% pay raise, far below what the union is demanding.
The union, which represents roughly 29,000 workers across Cal State’s 23 campuses, is seeking a 12% pay raise.
The union’s bargaining team reserved four days for talks this week, “making every effort to bargain in good faith and explore the space for a negotiated solution before a systemwide strike January 22 to 26,” the CFA said.
If it happens, the systemwide strike would be held at all 23 campuses for one week starting Jan. 22, which marks the beginning of the spring semester for most students.
In addition to pay raises, the union is pushing for an increase in parental leave from six weeks to a full semester, better access to breastfeeding stations and more gender-inclusive restrooms.