Thousands of healthcare and custodial workers from the University of California (UC) went on strike Wednesday, citing unfair labor practices and staffing shortages. The walkout involves two unions representing nearly 60,000 employees after failed contract negotiations with the 10-campus university system.
The American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees Local 3299 (AFSCME Local 3299) and the University Professional Technical Employees (UPTE)-CWA Local 9119 are leading the strike. Both unions had previously protested in November over similar concerns, which the university denied.
AFSCME Local 3299, representing about 37,000 workers—including respiratory therapists, pharmacy technicians, mental health workers, custodians, and gardeners—recently filed new complaints with the state’s Public Employment Relations Board. The union accuses UC of imposing restrictive policies to suppress worker concerns and limit union access.
“Instead of addressing declining wages that have contributed to staff shortages, UC has chosen to implement arbitrary rules that silence workers,” said AFSCME Local 3299 President Michael Avant.
UPTE, representing 20,000 employees such as physician assistants, optometrists, pharmacists, and nurse case managers, is holding a three-day strike. The union claims UC is attempting to suppress whistleblowers raising concerns about the staffing crisis, which affects student services, patient care, and research.
UC refuted the allegations, stating that it respects workers’ rights to strike and has proposed wage increases, healthcare premium reductions, and other benefits.
“The University of California is disappointed by the unions’ decision to strike,” UC said in a statement. “Rather than negotiating in good faith, AFSCME and UPTE have focused on strike preparation and spreading misinformation.”
AFSCME Local 3299’s contract expired on July 31, while UPTE’s contract ended on October 31.
