Iowa’s public universities work because we do
We are United Campus Workers of Iowa. We represent faculty, staff, and students at Iowa State University, University of Iowa, and University of Northern Iowa. Together, we are stronger.
Are you ready to join?
Starting a statewide, wall-to-wall union for public university employees
We advance worker interests by taking strategic collective action. We are stronger together. Existing channels to communicate our concerns have proven ineffective. We seek changes to support better working conditions, protect our benefits, and receive raises that cover inflation and reflect our value as contributors to the campus community.
Common issues
Better benefits
Employees deserve full coverage healthcare covering childbirth and parental leave, no out-of-pocket maximums, and access to affordable medication.
Fair wages
Salaries and wages aren’t keeping up with current market trends. With inflation and benefit rollbacks, most workers have less. Fixing stagnant wages is overdue.
Fund public education
Iowa used to be revered for its school system. Steady defunding of our schools has led to educators being asked to do more with less.
Defend academic freedom
Instructors including faculty, staff, and grad students should be protected from harassment related to what and how they teach.
Safe, dignified working conditions
We are committed to fostering an inclusive culture, combating discrimination, and addressing any issues of harassment or unfair treatment in the workplace. We aim to foster a positive and supportive working atmosphere that makes us feel safe at work.
Who we are
We are the workers of Iowa State University, University of Iowa, and the University of Northern Iowa, including faculty, staff, graduate students, and undergraduate workers. Our union serves as our collective, independent voice. Through our union we address specific issues we experience on the job.
We believe our working conditions are our students’ learning conditions, and will fight for substantial changes to ensure the success and dignity of future students and workers at higher education institutions across Iowa.
Our union is committed to providing an environment free from discrimination and harassment, regardless of an individual’s race, ethnicity, religion, color, sex, age, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, gender identity or expression, ancestry, pregnancy, or any other characteristic protected by law.
United Campus Workers (UCW) of Iowa is a local chapter of Communication Workers of America, and mirrors other statewide UCW locals.
Know your rights!
Our constitutionally granted freedoms of speech and assembly protect our right to form and participate in labor organizations, including a union. When we exercise these rights by organizing, we are building a movement to protect and expand those rights for future generations.
Contact an organizer
Interested in working together or learning more? Fill out this form and we will be in touch shortly. We can’t wait to hear from you!
Your responses will only be visible to the union organizing committee. Please use a non-university email.