http://www.mndaily.com/articles/2007/09/18/72163408Illinois Sen. Barack Obama sent a letter to University President Bob Bruininks informing him of the cancelation of a campaign event in support of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees strikers.
The Obama Campaign Caucus Convention was to be held Sept. 15 at the University's Ted Mann Concert Hall but is rescheduled for Oct. 6 at an off-campus location.
James Hannaway, national youth vote coordinator for the Obama campaign, said the event was moved in solidarity with striking AFSCME members. "We're probably going to have (the event) at St. Paul Central High School because we do stand with AFSCME," he said. "We're definitely not having it on the University of Minnesota campus."
However, critics claim the attention political figures are paying the strike is simply a political platform.
But in his letter, Obama asked Bruininks to support strikers by meeting their wage-increase proposal. "The workers' requests are simple and reasonable," the letter stated. "Their real pay has dropped over the last few years as the cost of living has increased."
The workers who dedicate their time and services to the University need the financial means to support themselves, Obama said. "(They) deserve a wage that allows them to raise a family and plan for retirement," he said.
Obama also encouraged Bruininks to take the necessary steps to resolve the situation. "End this strike and make the University of Minnesota a place that respects all of its workers," the letter stated.
Although he appreciates Obama's interest in the well-being of the University, Bruininks still stands by his wage proposal, University spokesman Dan Wolter said.
"President Bruininks (believes) the University's wage offer of 8.5 percent (is) a fair and competitive offer," Wolter said.
Printer-friendly format
Email this thread to a friend
Bookmark this thread
(1000+ posts)
Send PM |
Profile |
Ignore
