FELLOWS FAQ

Are fellows considered members of the bargaining unit?

Bargaining unit membership and union membership have large overlaps, but are not functionally identical. Fellows are not currently bargaining unit members. Fellow inclusion in bargaining units is a national fight as they have been excluded by universities across the country. We are continuing to organize to get fellows included in our bargaining unit. The best course of action to get benefits for fellows, even now, is to get the supermajority of fellows on campus to be full union members by signing a union card now. 

Can fellows be members of CGSU-ue?

Yes! As a fellow, you are eligible to sign a card and become a union member. The fight for fellow inclusion in our bargaining unit is a nation-wide fight, and we will continue to organize to get fellows included in our bargaining unit. A strong first step is ensuring that all fellows become union members. The question of dues for fellows will be decided in our constitution.

Fellows who are union members can participate in the decision-making and democracy of our union in the same way as bargaining unit members. This includes running for elected positions, voting, attending General Membership Meetings, etc.

How do dues work for fellows?

Dues for fellows will be decided in our constitution. Fellows who are union members can nominate themselves for a position on the Constitutional Committee (CC), vote in the CC elections, and vote to ratify the constitution. The CC will draft the constitution for all union members to vote on.

The deadline for CC nominations is Friday, April 18 at 5pm Eastern Time (ET). CC Elections will begin on Monday, April 21, 2025, and run through Wednesday, April 23, 2025, closing at 11:59 pm ET.

Fellows are highly encouraged to participate in this CGSU democratic process!

I’m a fellow. How can I get more involved?

First, by signing your card to become a member of the union! We are a democratic union, and the only way to have a voice and vote is by signing. Second, join organizers fighting for fellows by filling out this form, and help us get material benefits and protections for all grad workers!