Rensselaer Resident Assistants win election 55-9, join OPEIU 153

On March 28 and 29, Resident Assistants at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) voted to join OPEIU Local 153, with 86% voting union yes! This is the fifth unit of Resident Assistants to organize and win recognition of their union with OPEIU Local 153 in the past year.

“This win is just the beginning. There is a lot of work to be done to support our fellow RAs. All of us coming together gave us this opportunity and we need to make the most of it. After winning our union 55 to 9 we are preparing to bargain for better compensation and win key improvements for RAs at RPI.” - Adrian A., Resident Assistant at RPI.

“This was a hard-fought campaign. These workers stuck together despite union busting and illegal actions by RPI administration. They showed that when workers unite and speak truth, they can win ” said Local 153 organizer, Scott Williams. “It’s time for all higher education workers, undergraduate, graduate, faculty and staff to organize to build power and a voice at work. We are a part of this movement and we will continue to support workers and to keep winning!”