As I walk across campus, I am constantly asked about negotiations and what people can do to help. The fact is that there is something that each and every one of us can do. Try any or all of the following: participate in our Solidarity Walks; come to General Union meetings; perform in or attend the AFT Local 1904 musical event, Work That Matters - A Celebration; contribute to the Committee on Political Education (COPE) with a minimal deduction from each check. Become a visible part of the Union, and you send a message to the administration that we care about our working conditions, our hard-earned salaries, and our medical benefits, as well as the well-being of our students and our institution.

This is not the time for apathy. Make no mistake about it: the administration is watching. We are in the middle of the most difficult contract negotiations ever, with the presidents trying to limit or even eliminate our step increases, sabbaticals, career development opportunities, and a host of other employee rights. The presidents are pushing for ever-increasing power and unfettered authority to do what they want through hand-picked Trustees, state legislation, and unprecedented access to the Governor and Legislature.

Let Dr. Cole and our administration know that you stand behind your negotiation team. Show them you will not stand for the erosion of our compensation, benefits, academic freedom, intellectual property rights, or access to due process. Do it by participating, by wearing blue to our events, and by talking to colleagues about supporting our collective response to the unprecedented contractual concessions that are being demanded.

If you see me on campus, I'd be happy to talk to you about these issues. In the meantime, the operative word is "participation."

Rich Wolfson