Several members of the Wayne State University Union of Part-Time Faculty (UPTF) demonstrated in the center of Detroit’s Wayne State University campus to increase awareness about upcoming contract negotiations. Union representatives began talks with university administrators in November. There are approximately 900 adjunct faculty at Wayne who constitute the last group of university employees working without a union contract. According to demonstrators, part-time instructors earn a fraction of what full-time faculty do, and they receive no benefits. In an overwhelming vote in favor of union representation earlier this year, staffers indicated they are ready to join a nationwide effort to improve the standing of part-time employees.

The Union of Part-Time Faculty is now affiliated with the American Federation of Teachers and the AFL-CIO has given the movement greater strength.

In preparation for negotiations, the union surveyed members to better address grievances, according to Susan Titus, the WSU president of the UPTF.

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