MichMash: University of Michigan making plans to replace striking educators

It’s the summer of strikes.

Not just in Hollywood, but also here in Michigan.

The Detroit News reporters Kim Kozlowski and Hannah MacKay sit down with MichMash host Cheyna Roth to explain the possibility of the University of Michigan firing 2,300 striking members of the Graduate Employees’ Organization (GEO).

Plus, we cover the renewed efforts by advocates to stop Wayne State University’s practice of using dogs in their scientific research.

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In this episode:

• The University of Michigan’s contingency plan if graduate students remain on strike as the school year starts.
• The transparency of Metro Detroit hospitals.
• Renewed efforts by advocates to stop Wayne State University’s practice of using dogs in their scientific research.

There have been strikes going on at the University of Michigan since late March. The Graduate Employees’ Organization (GEO) consist of roughly 2,300 members — and they’re willing to disrupt the undergraduate courses and discussion sections taught by those members for better working conditions.

“Their main ask, which has been the most contentious point in negotiations, is higher wages,” says MacKay.  

The two sides have been bargaining since last November for a new contract which expired in May. “This is the longest work stoppage for this union since they formed in 1974,” Kozlowski shares.

There have been about 40 meetings, but GEO says their demands haven’t been met.  

With the fall semester starting in a few weeks, many wonder what U-M will do if the 2,300 teachers continue to strike.

“They’ve [University of Michigan] indicated that they are working on a plan and there are contingencies in place,” MacKay explains. 

Kozlowski continued: “The university didn’t outline a lot of specifics other than that they’ve been working with deans talking about contingency plans in the event that a contract is not reached by August 28.” 

More from MichMash:

• Judge rules University of Michigan grad strike unfair
• Nursing home workers file to unionize following strike
• Researcher explores how dogs experience the world