FAQs and Concerns

Forming a union is an exciting and important move towards equity – but it’s understandable to feel a little uncertain, particularly if you’ve never been part of a union before. It’s likely that you might encounter misinformation about unions. Some of this misinformation may even come from university administration or others in positions of authority, and it might often come in the form of half-truths. The FAQs below are intended to help us all navigate the claims we expect might circulate in the coming weeks and months.

Why should I join Tulane Workers United?

What is a “chilling effect”?

What is “status quo”?

Why would the administration spread misinformation about unionization?

Is the university allowed to lie to us about unionization and what it means?

What if the administration retaliates against me for supporting unionization?

What if I’m on a visa or green card? Could union membership jeopardize my employment?

I was told a union is just a third party attempting to represent me. Won’t a union just get in the way?

I’ve heard that dues are expensive. How will I afford to pay dues?

Aren’t unions just for blue collar workers? Shouldn’t we be grateful for the opportunity to teach wonderful students at a prestigious university?

Won’t this hurt our students? If we get raises, does that mean tuition will go up?

Why not focus our effort on a more vulnerable group first, like adjuncts and staff?

What if Tulane doesn’t have the money to give us what we’re asking for? Will this all be for nothing?

If some workers get a raise, will others see their wages cut?

I signed a card a few weeks ago, doesn’t that mean I’m already a member?

So what’s the actual timeline for getting a contract?