From Rebecca Givan, HELU Delegate from Rutgers AAUP/AFT LOCAL 6323 and member of HELU Steering Committee
At Rutgers, we’re seeing (unsurprisingly) a massive upsurge in engagement from our member in the STEM fields (especially our faculty). When federal science funding has been threatened, for example through the cap on indirect costs, and the slashing of funding to areas deemed by Trump and Musk to be “too woke,” scientists know that the future of the totality of scientific research is threatened.
We’ve had several successful actions already. On February 19th, we gathered on our campuses to say “Hands off our healthcare, hands off our research, hands off our jobs.” Many of the speakers were new to speaking at union actions, and spoke passionately about the importance of federal funding to their ability to conduct pathbreaking research and mentor and train the next generation of scientists.
A busload of our members then traveled to Washington, DC on February 25th to participate in the press conference with national union presidents, to amplify the same message. For many members, this was their first political demonstration and the energy and excitement were palpable. Our members then took their own initiative and coordinated with scientists, patient advocates, and other supporters across the state of New Jersey to organize a “Stand Up For Science” action in Trenton. As a union we provided support, including snacks, signs, sign-making materials, and our staff, to make sure the grassroots action went smoothly. Over 600 people participated in the action. It’s clear that the attacks on our ability to conduct scientific research are tremendously energizing and our members are looking to their union for support and focus as they build a response.