OHSU just sent us their update on the delivery of our strike notice. They are "disappointed" it's come to this even though their representative told us to "trust the process" months ago. Declaring a strike is part of the process and it is our right to exercise that action. OHSU should be ashamed that it took a strike notice for us to get a real proposal on wages– an offer that should have been made months ago. Still their proposal’s intent is to have postdocs meet the NIH’s goal of $70K within 4 years, and only follow minimum pay standards once that has been met.
Their proposal:
Increase pay minimums – After holding onto 0% increases for 7 months, OHSU has moved to a 3.5% increase two pay periods after ratification.
Regular COLAs – 3.5% minimum COLAs or amount set by the NIH; whichever is higher. Once the starting wage reaches at least $70,000, OHSU will abide by the NIH pay scale and the annual 3.5% increases will no longer be applicable.
W2s for all– No.
Our supposal:
Increase pay minimums – 5.5% by two full pay periods no later than September 1, 2024. Second increase of 5.5% by March 1, 2025.
Regular COLAs – Regular COLAs on August 1st for 3 years of 4.0%, 3.5% and 3.5%
W2s for all– Yes.
Although we saw movement from OHSU’s, it is not an acceptable proposal. Our team is committed to reaching a fair agreement, and both parties have arranged to continue mediation on August 13, 2024. Our legal counsel is also addressing the communications from OHSU telling remote workers to self-report if they are participating in the strike. Remember: you may decline to answer if you are asked by faculty about your participation in the strike.
Furthermore, communications from OHSU on visas is unclear. We are seeking the help of an immigration lawyer to provide clearer explanations of the topics pertaining to your visa and the strike. Please keep in mind that similar chilling messages were sent to postdocs at Mt. Sinai, who did not face any known immigration consequences for their 12 day strike. Chilling behavior from OHSU like this is exactly why we are declaring a strike– INTERNATIONAL POSTDOCS DESERVE RESPECT.
We must keep the pressure on OHSU.
In solidarity,
Postdoc Workers United
