In the wake of Donald Trump’s election as president in 2016, Todd Wolfson assumed the presidency of the American Association of University Professors (AAUP). His initial statements emphasized a commitment to safeguarding academic freedom and advocating for shared governance in higher education.
Concerns Raised by Wolfson
Wolfson raised significant concerns regarding the decrease in public funding for education, escalating student debt, and potential threats to academic freedom. He pointed out the importance of maintaining a strong and inclusive higher education system, arguing that excluding many individuals from meaningful participation in democracy could hinder societal progress.
Union Membership in Higher Education
According to data from the National Center for the Study of Collective Bargaining in Higher Education, over 400,000 faculty members, which accounts for approximately 27% of the academic workforce, are union members. Despite the majority being unorganized, Wolfson expressed optimism, citing a successful strike at Rutgers University in 2023 as evidence of his ability to build coalitions and engage faculty effectively.
AAUP’s Initiatives
In a recent interview with Eleanor J. Bader, Wolfson discussed the AAUP’s efforts to increase membership and enhance its presence on college campuses. The organization is implementing training sessions designed to cultivate skills for effective organizing and raise awareness about the negative impacts of disinvestment in higher education. The initiative, known as “Organize Every Campus,” is deemed essential in light of the current political landscape and ongoing pressures faced by educational institutions.
Challenges in Academic Environments
Wolfson outlined various challenges confronting academic environments, including budget reductions and restrictions on free speech related to college curricula, particularly in the areas of gender and cultural studies. He stressed the importance of collective action at both local and national levels to address these issues.
The Importance of Labor Unions
The effort to revitalize labor unions in the higher education sector has become increasingly important, particularly in response to policies from the Trump administration that are viewed as antagonistic toward higher education. The AAUP plans to collaborate with other educational labor organizations in an attempt to form a consolidated response to threats against academic freedoms.
Future Advocacy for Academic Labor
Under Wolfson’s leadership, the AAUP aims to be a significant advocate for the future of academic labor while striving to ensure that higher education remains a vital component of democratic society. The organization is dedicated to confronting immediate threats arising from the current political environment while pursuing sustainable development and unity among the academic workforce.
(Source: Truthout)