I'm new here. How can I find out if I’m in the Union?

You’re only a Union member if you’ve signed a card. However, if you are in a non-exempt (i.e., overtime-eligible) position, you are most likely in the bargaining unit and are eligible to join. Give us a call if you haven’t yet received information from the Union—we’ll send a packet of information and/or come over to say hello.

Do I have to join?

Harvard is not what is sometimes called a “union shop.” In other words, you are not required to join the Union. However, if you choose not to become a member, you must still pay an agency fee, the amount of which is typically equivalent to the current Union dues. The reason for this is that there are many programs and benefits, such as salary increases, paid time off, and childcare and education funds negotiated by the Union which cover all members of the bargaining unit, and the agency fee provides some equity to ensure that members are not in some sense paying for the benefits of non-members (though these funds do not come from Union dues!).

If the cost is the same, why should I join the Union?

Or put a better way, why shouldn’t you? Our numbers show our strength, and strength is what gets us good contracts. A Union is only as strong as its members, a fact that goes far beyond numbers—we need the engagement, ideas and spirit of as many of us as possible, and that comes from membership. As a member, you can vote for representatives, and for ratification of all contracts. As a member, you’ll be informed of current goings-on, invited to local meetings where you can get information, discuss issues, and learn about how YOU can shape your own working life here at Harvard.

What are the dues and where do they go?

Dues for 2008 are $15.14 per paycheck for members working more than 20 hours per week; $11.45 per paycheck for those working 20 or fewer hours per week. Every year on January 1st, dues increase by about 25-50 cents per paycheck, a nationwide AFSCME increase based on the average increases of all its members. AFSCME—the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees—is our parent union, one of the largest in the country. Union dues are used to support the work of the Union at different levels. For more information about this please click here.

What’s in the contract?

Lots! First of all, please note that the Union Agreement and Manual are not the same as the general University Personnel Manual. Our current contract-- consisting of the Agreement and the Manual-- and is available on paper by calling the Union or dropping by our office, or electronically via harvie.

When is my next raise?

The most recent increases in this contract were:
July 1st, 2007: Structural raise and progression raise (if eligible)
July 1st, 2008: Structural raise and progression raise (if eligible)
July 1st, 2009: Structural raise and progression raise (if eligible)

Our current contract runs from July 1, 2007 to June 30, 2010. For more information about the 2007 contract negotiations, see the negotations page.

For more information about the salary increase program, please see the salary Q&A.

Who should I contact if I have a problem or a question?

You should contact your local Union representative or a Union staff member. If you do not know who your representative is, please call the office—617-661-8289. Information you give to your representative or a Union staff member is confidential.

What will they do if I need help?

Discussing your needs in a situation is the first thing that should happen. Calling the Union office or a rep does not mean you are starting a fight! An experienced activist can offer advice, behind-the-scenes coaching, or direct involvement—whichever is most appropriate to your situation.

How do I apply for the Childcare Fund?

Please click here.

What is the Education Fund and how do I apply for it?

Please check here.

What is this Rental Transition loan I've heard about? Am I eligible?

Please use this link .

What else is the Union working on?

See our section Accomplishments & Goals.

Can I get involved?

Absolutely--we wouldn’t be a Union without you! Give us a call at 617-661-8289 or talk to your co-workers or rep if you’d like to get involved.