• We need your help to bring your healthcare providers in-network. Please share a list of providers you would like to bring in-network in this brief, anonymous survey. The survey also includes the option to provide more detailed information about your healthcare providers (both in-network and out-of-network with Cigna). This information will help provide further context for your bargaining team, and be part of creating a list of recommended providers for new grad workers and others looking for healthcare. 

• Tax help through VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance), through Tax Day (April 15th)

Grads can get help with taxes through the VITA program at OSU. Bring any tax forms, a photo ID, and passport or SSN card and volunteers will work with you to file your taxes. Grads have reported a quick and simple process and higher than usual tax returns. Book an appointment here.

Announcements

• Fellows' Union update

OSU has objected to the Fellows' Union authorization process by claiming that fellows aren't employees. This is not surprising, as they claimed the same thing about graduate research assistants before they were included in the bargaining unit. They were wrong then, as the Employment Relations Board found, and they are wrong now. This is far from over. Fellows' do work that benefits the OSU and deserve the same protections as GTAs/GRAs.

• Congratulations to PCCFCE and PCCFFAP!

After weeks of strike both units of workers at Portland Community College have reached tentative agreements on their contracts! These workers fought hard for what they deserved: they organized, they united on picket line, they held fast in bargaining, and it worked. Before the strike PCC was offering cost-of-living-adjustment of 0.25%, and these folks won 2-3%. Before the strike PCC was refusing any back-pay, after the strike the workers received lump-sum payments in the range of thousands. This is reminder of the power we have when we come together.