Looming York University strike - brings back memories

Back in 2018, graduate teaching assistants (TAs) and other contract faculty at York University walked off the job. This strike would last 87 days, and be the longest university strike in Canadian history. 

This strike hit home for me. At the time, I was working as a TA at YorkU. I walked the picket lines in solidarity with my colleagues. This strike happened during the winter months and somedays it was bitter cold outside. But we stood together, bound by the goal of making working conditions better for future TAs and contract staff in higher ed.

Another TA strike is looming at YorkU, and may happen as soon as Monday. While I consider it an honor to work as a TA, this job also deserves a living wage. TAs are truly the backbone of universities. Having previously worked as a TA (for six years), I stand in solidarity with teaching assistants knowing the value and worth of their work. May a fair deal be reached. 

Strike at YorkU 2018, Photo credit: here