Graduate Labor Union March to City Hall demanding recognition

The University of Maryland Graduate Labor Union march along Baltimore Avenue Wednesday to protest recognition as a union (Nina Wilson/The Black Explosion).

Hundreds of student workers, university faculty and supporters in bright red shirts marched along Baltimore Avenue in front of the University of Maryland Wednesday before heading to College Park City Hall to protest to be recognized as an official labor union, along with higher wages and protection against unfair working conditions. 

Seas of people left buildings around 1 p.m. to meet at the intersection of Regents Dr. and Campus Dr. for the Graduate Labor Union’s protest. 

The group held up handmade signs and chanted, “What do we want? Recognition. When do we want it? Now. If we don’t get it? Shut it down. Shut it down,” and “Say it clear. Say it loud. We demand a contract now,” among other protests.

The union was active last spring, including a practice picket on Feb. 26 when thousands of graduate students marched across McKeldin Mall. 

The group is advocating for affordable housing, contracts protecting from exploitation, contracted work hours, overtime pay, disability justice and the right to free speech without retaliation.