The University Professional and Technical Employees union (UPTE) is asking UC administrative professionals for their signatures on cards and other materials so UPTE can become their exclusive bargaining representative.

UC neither discourages nor supports unionization -- UC supports employees' right to choose for themselves.

Before doing anything, employees should make sure they understand clearly what signing a card or petition means, and what it means to be exclusively represented by a union. 

• Get the facts

Your signature counts as a "vote."

Signing an authorization card or petition means much more than expressing interest or asking for more information.

• Know what you're signing. Read carefully before you sign anything.
• If a union gets signatures from 50% plus one of the employees in the target group, that union can automatically become the representative for all employees in that group – including those who didn't sign cards.
• If the union becomes the exclusive representative, the union will speak for you. Only the union may deal directly with UC regarding your salary, hours of work and other employment matters.

An open election to unionize is not guaranteed.  

• Under the current "card check" law, it is entirely up to unions to decide if they want an open election — there's no requirement for an open election.
• If a union receives and submits signatures from 50% plus one of the employees in the target group, everyone in that group can automatically be unionized.

Don't be silent.

• Determining whether or not to have a union represent you is an important decision – it affects your rights as an employee and your relationship with your manager and the University.
• If you don't take a position and express your views, others may decide for you and you may automatically become part of a union.
• Whether you support or oppose union representation, UC encourages you to get the facts about what being in a union means and make an informed choice.

Resources for employees

• Answers to frequently asked questions about the UPTE organizing campaign and unionization
• For more information, talk to your supervisor or contact your local HR office.

Quick Links

• Unionization FAQ's
• Labor Relations Homepage
• Background on Labor Relations and Collective Bargaining at the University