The Graduate Labor Union – United Electrical is thrilled to have support from organizations and individuals within the University of Minnesota and in the broader community. If you would like to join them in expressing your support for graduate workers, you can sign here.
Support from organizations
The Council of Graduate Students voted unanimously to pass a resolution endorsing GLU-UE.
The American Association of University Professors, University of Minnesota-Twin Cities published a statement of support for GLU-UE.
The Council of International Graduate Students put out a statement in support of GLU-UE.
The Minneapolis City Council voted unanimously to pass a resolution in support of GLU-UE.
Testimonials from undergrads about graduate TAs and instructors
“She has been very open and honest with our discussion group and is always willing to help us and answer questions when we need. As being one of her students, you can see that she puts a lot of time, passion, and effort into this class that should be recognized greater.”
“David has gone above and beyond to make sure that the students in his discussion section understand the hard concepts in Calculus 2. As a transfer student that took Calc 1 three years ago his dedication in simplifying the topics and making sure we understand has been the key factor in my success in the class. He engages the students while he works through problems and makes sure to lay out each step and checks to see if we understand. The learning environment he has fostered has made me feel comfortable to ask questions.”
“His dedication to helping his students learn was outstanding. He was patient and took the time to explain material in ways that we would understand. Although I struggled with the material in the class, Burke was extremely helpful and it was clear that he wanted all of his students to succeed. Spending time in his office hours was integral to my learning in the course.”
“Will is a phenomenal TA and makes our Biology labs engaging as well as educational. He is always helpful, friendly, and approachable. His teaching style encourages us to participate in discussions about the material, which deepens our understanding of the subject overall. I have learned so much in our lab this semester thanks to his efforts.”
“MaryKate is an amazing TA. She is approachable and friendly but also challenges us in our discussions with creative activities. It has given us opportunities to more deeply explore the topics covered in lecture in ways that are very applicable on our exams and in papers. I always look forward to the discussions that she runs and feel that she has added a lot to my and my classmates’ experiences in our History of Science class!”
“The amount of effort and time Oliver has put into this course far surpasses that of my other classes. Oliver’s enthusiasm and passion for statistics has pushed me to do more research on my own to learn more about topics that are not covered in the course. Oliver has always encouraged us to dig deeper and to go to office hours to learn things beyond what’s covered in class.”
“She was a very engaging instructor and made the discussion section very fun while also being super helpful!”
“Not only are they extremely helpful and clear while teaching, they are also very understanding and it feels like they genuinely care about us succeeding. If not for them, I definitely would have dropped the class awhile. I always look forward to coming to their class and will continue to for the few weeks left of school I have with them!”
“Maria is a wonderful TA who cares about student interests and is always excited to discuss and shape our project ideas!”
“He is extremely helpful all the time from discussions, to labs, to even his office hours. It’s evident that he puts in the time and work and it makes a real benefit to his students. While the university’s actions prove it doesn’t appreciate graduate student workers, I do!”
“She has made my class so much easier to understand and more engaging. I look forward to the discussions and feel comfortable asking questions and participating!”
Labor organizations signing solidarity pledge
AFSCME Local 3800 – UMN Clerical Workers
AFSCME Local 3260 – UMN Healthcare Workers
Minnesota Starbucks Workers United
Trader Joe’s United Local 2, Store 725, Downtown Minneapolis
UNITE HERE Local 17
Teamsters Local 320
TEMPO: The Education Minnesota Professional Organization
Minneapolis Federation of Teachers, Local 59
UMN Graduate Labor Union 