Pittsburgh graduate students achieve historic union victory

In Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, University of Pittsburgh graduate students have achieved a significant milestone in their long-standing efforts to unionize. On a recent Friday, they voted overwhelmingly in favor of joining the United Steelworkers, with 1,033 votes for and only 28 against. The outcome is particularly notable as it follows a narrow defeat in 2019, demonstrating the sustained commitment of these students over the years. Activists like Caroline Layding and Alison Mahoney highlighted that the struggle has been catalyzed by drastic changes in health insurance terms, which mobilized more students to advocate for improved workplace conditions and benefits. With this decisive victory, the graduate workers are now preparing to negotiate their first contract with the university's administration, which has pledged to engage in good faith discussions.