Below are some answers to Frequently Asked Questions about our union, College of DuPage Staff United (CODSU).

Q. How will our COD Staff Union (CODSU) benefit me?

A. With a union, we’ll negotiate our wages, benefits, and working conditions, and we will set the priorities. Once our union is certified with enough Yes votes, we gain representation rights even before a contract is finalized, and the administration cannot make changes without consulting us.

Q. What is an authorization card?

A. The union card is an online form that serves two purposes: authorization (a YES vote to form our union) and membership (once our union is formed, you’ll be a member). This card is confidential; administration will not know how you voted. Not signing a card is voting No!

Q. Who runs AFSCME and CODSU?

A. We do! AFSCME (the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees) is a national union with locals that have elected officers. CODSU members will elect co-workers to the contract bargaining team. Only CODSU members get to vote on the contract. When the contract is complete, we will nominate and elect officers to lead our local union.

Q. How much are union dues?

A. Dues are $52.67 a month for full-time staff; less for part-time staff (under 20 hrs/wk). No dues are paid until contract bargaining is complete. We won’t vote to approve it unless what we gain in pay and benefits is greater than the dues we pay.

Q. What will we ask for in our CODSU union contract?

A. Right now we’re focused on building and winning our union. Once we’re certified, we’ll survey all members to determine priorities, elect a bargaining team, and sit down with management as equals to negotiate. With our union, we’ll have a REAL voice in the decisions that affect our profession, along with the ability to improve our wages, benefits and working conditions, and to protect what we currently enjoy!

Q. How can I get more involved?

A. Vote yes by signing your union card. Talk to your coworkers! Join us at a meeting. Set up a call with a coworker and an organizer.