We're tired of seeing the value of our salaries decrease every yearWhy did we picket? Even though our contract has expired and we have been bargaining for many months, the Governor has still not authorized the University's negotiators to offer a salary proposal. His Secretary of Administration and Finance has pooh-poohed the idea that we need to at least keep up with the increase in the cost of living (3.8% last year). And on July 14, the Governor vetoed $11 million in higher education funding, including $4 million for UMass.

MSP members were out in force to insist on No More Pay Cuts Dozens of UMass faculty and staff held signs, wore stickers, engaged in discussion with the Governor, and applauded as an airplane flew over Amherst with a banner saying "Gov. Patrick -- Fair Contracts, No Pay Cuts" In fact, for the past 4 years we have taken effective pay cuts as our raises have been less than the increase in the cost of living. This is no way to attract and retain the faculty needed for the University to live up to its potential.

MSP and other unions around the state have pledged to continue the "No More Pay Cuts" campaign until we have a fair salary offer.

Gov. Patrick: Fair Contracts, No Pay Cuts