Yolo County Democratic Central Committee Resolution Unanimously Supports UC Davis Food Service Workers

On Monday Night, the Yolo County Central Committee voted unanimously to pass a resolution in support of Sodexho Workers of UC Davis.

The resolution, drafted by Robbie Abelon, a staffer for the Christopher Cabaldon campaign, cites among other things:

“a large disparity in benefits and wages between direct university workers and contracted out workers”

Moreover it further acknowledges:

“there have been multiple complaints of disrespect, unfair treatment, and sexual harassment that workers feel have been ignored by the management.”

The Yolo County Democratic Central Committee fully supports

“the working students’ effort to become directly contracted university workers, receive equal pay, equal benefits, and to have the right to unionize with AFSCME Local 3299…”

The resolution will be delivered to and solicit support from all elected officials in Yolo County.

As importantly, five elected officials or candidates for office delivered strong and impassioned statements on behalf of the Sodexho Workers. These include West Sacramento Mayor Christopher Cabaldon and Yolo County Supervisor Mariko Yamada who are both running for the Democratic Nomination to the 8th Assembly District. Former Davis School Board Member Jim Provenza and John Ferrera who are candidates for the Fourth Supervisorial District. And Davis City Councilmember Lamar Heystek.

Each of these individuals have agreed to provide a statement to the Vanguard in support of the Sodexho Workers. [At the time this article ran, only two of these were received, however, as I get statements, I will post them up here].

Former Davis School Board Member Jim Provenza:

“The Sodexho workers should be entitled to the same pay and benefits as other employees who work at UC Davis. Converting Sodexho food service workers to UC Davis employees– with full rights, pay and benefits– is the right thing to do. Every other University of California campus has taken this important step. We urge UC Davis to do the same.”

Yolo County Supervisor Mariko Yamada:

“I have and will continue to support UCD contract Sodexho workers in their efforts to achieve full employment with the University. Low-wage earners who are also under- or uninsured frequently end-up in emergency rooms or at the County for assistance at a much higher overall systems cost. Joining in the recent unanimous vote sends a message of solidarity with the workers as well as a message of encouragement to UCD leadership to move towards doing the right thing. A resolution of this matter should also be viewed in the larger context of the need for a universal, single-payer healthcare system for all Californians.”

John Ferrera, candidate for Yolo County Supervisor:

I have spoken in the past of my support of the University food service employees effort for reasonable compensation and working conditions and continue to support them. I believe that we need to protect these employees. Many of these people are students whose fees have been doubled by the University of California over the past five years. To say that these people who provide food to the University population in Davis should be the only food service workers in the UC system who are not afforded fairwage, benefit and job protections as others is simply wrong.

I am pleased that this week the Democratic Central Committee took a principled stand on this issue of fairness for UC Davis workers.

One of the points that Mayor Christopher Cabaldon made on Monday was that the City of West Sacramento outsources work. For instance, they contract out building permit approvals. He said they do that because there is a huge variance in the numbers year to year. Some years it might be a few hundred and others it might be several thousand. It makes no sense to hire and fire people because of this variance. However, that rationale does not exist with food service at the university. The demand for food does not widely vary year-to-year. The only rationale for outsourcing those contracts is cost savings to the university. Basically this is saving money at the expense of those employees who make the least money and are the most vulnerable to begin with.

Meanwhile yesterday a group of concerned citizens went to Sacramento to lobby four legislators on behalf of the Sodexho Workers. These legislators included Senator Mike Machado, Assemblywoman Lois Wolk, Assemblyman Dave Jones, and Senator Darrell Steinberg.

They delivered a letter to those legislators which read:

“We support the UC Davis food service workers in their request to become employees of the university. Until UC Davis is a responsible member of our community and directly employs contracted out workers, we do not support UC Davis receiving our public funds.

We are pleased that UC Davis is recognizing the disparity that exists for contracted out food service workers on campus. However, UC Davis is the only remaining campus within the UC system that still outsources food services.

We have listened to personal stories of the lack of worker access to affordable health care and to their lack of retirement benefits. Despite recent improvements, workers and their families continue to suffer because of disrespectful treatment, reduced hours, no pension, no rights or protection on the job, no job security, and unequal wages.”

In conclusion their asked the following:

“We ask our elected officials to help us end this policy of discrimination by withholding public funds until UC Davis is in parity with the rest of the UC System.”

The letter was signed by nearly 70 individuals representing a broad cross section of groups in Davis. These groups include: St. James Catholic Church, Unitarian Universalist Church, Davis Community Church, Friends (Quakers), CA Christian Association, UCD Professors both active and retired, Davis Peace Coalition, STEAC (Short Term Emergency Aids), Dos Pinos Co-OP, ACLU, Right to the Life, Saint Vincent de Paul.

The lobbying effort focused on an education campaign that aimed at describing the situation with Sodexho specifically the wage and benefit inequality but also the treatment of workers. Most paramount were actual Sodexho Workers who described in stark detail, often in Spanish, their disparate and unacceptable treatment.

The most interesting aspect of the lobbying effort is that it was done not by hired professionals but by regular citizens. In fact, the people I spoke with, Guy Turner who leads Gospel Justice and his wife Akumi Turner, along with Katie Brown a member of that group, had never lobbied before. It was a learning experience for them. They got to see the legislative process in action.

They fear that the Chancellor is now locked into his position and are attacking to bring to bear both public pressure and legislative pressure in order to put the food service workers at UC Davis on par with their counterparts at the other UC Campuses across the state.

For many this is a source of grave concern and deep embarrassment that a community like Davis has allowed this kind of treatment of Sodexho Workers to persist.

—Doug Paul Davis reporting

Author

  • David Greenwald

    Greenwald is the founder, editor, and executive director of the Davis Vanguard. He founded the Vanguard in 2006. David Greenwald moved to Davis in 1996 to attend Graduate School at UC Davis in Political Science. He lives in South Davis with his wife Cecilia Escamilla Greenwald and three children.

    View all posts

Categories:

Labor Issues

116 comments

  1. And monkeys like bananas… An organization calling itself the “Yolo County Democratic Central Committee” needs to support every union thing that comes its way or its members will all lose their “Hero of the Committee” medals…

  2. And monkeys like bananas… An organization calling itself the “Yolo County Democratic Central Committee” needs to support every union thing that comes its way or its members will all lose their “Hero of the Committee” medals…

  3. And monkeys like bananas… An organization calling itself the “Yolo County Democratic Central Committee” needs to support every union thing that comes its way or its members will all lose their “Hero of the Committee” medals…

  4. And monkeys like bananas… An organization calling itself the “Yolo County Democratic Central Committee” needs to support every union thing that comes its way or its members will all lose their “Hero of the Committee” medals…

  5. Maybe Vanderhoef and some of high level Vice Chancellors and Provosts could contribute some of their salary increases in recent years to pay for this? They seem to have done pretty well for themselves.

    But, I guess that wouldn’t be a good precedent, showing such concern for lowly paid workers. Might start a dangerous trend.

    –Richard Estes

  6. Maybe Vanderhoef and some of high level Vice Chancellors and Provosts could contribute some of their salary increases in recent years to pay for this? They seem to have done pretty well for themselves.

    But, I guess that wouldn’t be a good precedent, showing such concern for lowly paid workers. Might start a dangerous trend.

    –Richard Estes

  7. Maybe Vanderhoef and some of high level Vice Chancellors and Provosts could contribute some of their salary increases in recent years to pay for this? They seem to have done pretty well for themselves.

    But, I guess that wouldn’t be a good precedent, showing such concern for lowly paid workers. Might start a dangerous trend.

    –Richard Estes

  8. Maybe Vanderhoef and some of high level Vice Chancellors and Provosts could contribute some of their salary increases in recent years to pay for this? They seem to have done pretty well for themselves.

    But, I guess that wouldn’t be a good precedent, showing such concern for lowly paid workers. Might start a dangerous trend.

    –Richard Estes

  9. It is an absolute travesty that in this town, with the kind of social conscience we have, that more people have not stepped forward on this issue. People can say, oh the Democrats always back the union. Bullshit. I wouldn’t have been surprised if the local party had abandoned the union. It’s nice to see both the Supervisor and Assembly candidates step forward on this, now we need action, I’m tired of the rhetoric without action from Wolk and Machado. Where are they on this? We’ve heard their soundbites, but what have they done?

  10. It is an absolute travesty that in this town, with the kind of social conscience we have, that more people have not stepped forward on this issue. People can say, oh the Democrats always back the union. Bullshit. I wouldn’t have been surprised if the local party had abandoned the union. It’s nice to see both the Supervisor and Assembly candidates step forward on this, now we need action, I’m tired of the rhetoric without action from Wolk and Machado. Where are they on this? We’ve heard their soundbites, but what have they done?

  11. It is an absolute travesty that in this town, with the kind of social conscience we have, that more people have not stepped forward on this issue. People can say, oh the Democrats always back the union. Bullshit. I wouldn’t have been surprised if the local party had abandoned the union. It’s nice to see both the Supervisor and Assembly candidates step forward on this, now we need action, I’m tired of the rhetoric without action from Wolk and Machado. Where are they on this? We’ve heard their soundbites, but what have they done?

  12. It is an absolute travesty that in this town, with the kind of social conscience we have, that more people have not stepped forward on this issue. People can say, oh the Democrats always back the union. Bullshit. I wouldn’t have been surprised if the local party had abandoned the union. It’s nice to see both the Supervisor and Assembly candidates step forward on this, now we need action, I’m tired of the rhetoric without action from Wolk and Machado. Where are they on this? We’ve heard their soundbites, but what have they done?

  13. Just what California taxpayers need, more union members. If the sodexho workers get parity and are paid by the big U all undocumented workers will be fired. Is that on par with Univ. employees?

  14. Just what California taxpayers need, more union members. If the sodexho workers get parity and are paid by the big U all undocumented workers will be fired. Is that on par with Univ. employees?

  15. Just what California taxpayers need, more union members. If the sodexho workers get parity and are paid by the big U all undocumented workers will be fired. Is that on par with Univ. employees?

  16. Just what California taxpayers need, more union members. If the sodexho workers get parity and are paid by the big U all undocumented workers will be fired. Is that on par with Univ. employees?

  17. Shame on the Central Committee. As a life-long Democrat I cannot believe they put this on the agenda and never notified the university or asked anyone to come from the university and present the other side. How people could vote on something when only one side is presented? Doesn’t say much for the Central Committee’s sense of fairness does it?

  18. Shame on the Central Committee. As a life-long Democrat I cannot believe they put this on the agenda and never notified the university or asked anyone to come from the university and present the other side. How people could vote on something when only one side is presented? Doesn’t say much for the Central Committee’s sense of fairness does it?

  19. Shame on the Central Committee. As a life-long Democrat I cannot believe they put this on the agenda and never notified the university or asked anyone to come from the university and present the other side. How people could vote on something when only one side is presented? Doesn’t say much for the Central Committee’s sense of fairness does it?

  20. Shame on the Central Committee. As a life-long Democrat I cannot believe they put this on the agenda and never notified the university or asked anyone to come from the university and present the other side. How people could vote on something when only one side is presented? Doesn’t say much for the Central Committee’s sense of fairness does it?

  21. DPD
    If the workers are incorporated as Univ. employees the University requires proof of citizenship ie, eligibilty to work in this country. Without it you cannot work for the State of Ca.
    As unions go there are approximately 9 of them representing on UCD campus. Thanks to that jerkoff gray davis and the fair share law everyone eligible for union membership was FORCED to pay union dues, without being able to vote on union matters.
    An example is that prior to that clown gray davis going fair share, because he was purchased by the unions, there were approx. 1650 secretaries paying dues to their particular union.
    Upon being screwed by fair share law and gray davis another 17,000 secretaries were FORCED to PAY 25 to 30 dollars a month to the union. In addition to this they still cannot vote unless they pay an additional fee above the fair share fee.
    This group of secretarial help represents a large portion of single mom’s supporting one or more children. What do you think 25 to 30 dollars means to the family? Yeah, lunch money or special treats are cut.

    Wow some union huh? Also you might want to check on how the union has represented some of these same people they steal from when these individuals have problems. You would find that the representation is close to abysmal.

  22. DPD
    If the workers are incorporated as Univ. employees the University requires proof of citizenship ie, eligibilty to work in this country. Without it you cannot work for the State of Ca.
    As unions go there are approximately 9 of them representing on UCD campus. Thanks to that jerkoff gray davis and the fair share law everyone eligible for union membership was FORCED to pay union dues, without being able to vote on union matters.
    An example is that prior to that clown gray davis going fair share, because he was purchased by the unions, there were approx. 1650 secretaries paying dues to their particular union.
    Upon being screwed by fair share law and gray davis another 17,000 secretaries were FORCED to PAY 25 to 30 dollars a month to the union. In addition to this they still cannot vote unless they pay an additional fee above the fair share fee.
    This group of secretarial help represents a large portion of single mom’s supporting one or more children. What do you think 25 to 30 dollars means to the family? Yeah, lunch money or special treats are cut.

    Wow some union huh? Also you might want to check on how the union has represented some of these same people they steal from when these individuals have problems. You would find that the representation is close to abysmal.

  23. DPD
    If the workers are incorporated as Univ. employees the University requires proof of citizenship ie, eligibilty to work in this country. Without it you cannot work for the State of Ca.
    As unions go there are approximately 9 of them representing on UCD campus. Thanks to that jerkoff gray davis and the fair share law everyone eligible for union membership was FORCED to pay union dues, without being able to vote on union matters.
    An example is that prior to that clown gray davis going fair share, because he was purchased by the unions, there were approx. 1650 secretaries paying dues to their particular union.
    Upon being screwed by fair share law and gray davis another 17,000 secretaries were FORCED to PAY 25 to 30 dollars a month to the union. In addition to this they still cannot vote unless they pay an additional fee above the fair share fee.
    This group of secretarial help represents a large portion of single mom’s supporting one or more children. What do you think 25 to 30 dollars means to the family? Yeah, lunch money or special treats are cut.

    Wow some union huh? Also you might want to check on how the union has represented some of these same people they steal from when these individuals have problems. You would find that the representation is close to abysmal.

  24. DPD
    If the workers are incorporated as Univ. employees the University requires proof of citizenship ie, eligibilty to work in this country. Without it you cannot work for the State of Ca.
    As unions go there are approximately 9 of them representing on UCD campus. Thanks to that jerkoff gray davis and the fair share law everyone eligible for union membership was FORCED to pay union dues, without being able to vote on union matters.
    An example is that prior to that clown gray davis going fair share, because he was purchased by the unions, there were approx. 1650 secretaries paying dues to their particular union.
    Upon being screwed by fair share law and gray davis another 17,000 secretaries were FORCED to PAY 25 to 30 dollars a month to the union. In addition to this they still cannot vote unless they pay an additional fee above the fair share fee.
    This group of secretarial help represents a large portion of single mom’s supporting one or more children. What do you think 25 to 30 dollars means to the family? Yeah, lunch money or special treats are cut.

    Wow some union huh? Also you might want to check on how the union has represented some of these same people they steal from when these individuals have problems. You would find that the representation is close to abysmal.

  25. Amen to the above. The issue here is solely expanding union membership. Did you know that 70% of the employees are students and work part-time. Even more curious, if this group of employees becomes univ. employees, the students will be stripped of the benefits they currently enjoy including tuition and book reimbursements. Go figure.

  26. Amen to the above. The issue here is solely expanding union membership. Did you know that 70% of the employees are students and work part-time. Even more curious, if this group of employees becomes univ. employees, the students will be stripped of the benefits they currently enjoy including tuition and book reimbursements. Go figure.

  27. Amen to the above. The issue here is solely expanding union membership. Did you know that 70% of the employees are students and work part-time. Even more curious, if this group of employees becomes univ. employees, the students will be stripped of the benefits they currently enjoy including tuition and book reimbursements. Go figure.

  28. Amen to the above. The issue here is solely expanding union membership. Did you know that 70% of the employees are students and work part-time. Even more curious, if this group of employees becomes univ. employees, the students will be stripped of the benefits they currently enjoy including tuition and book reimbursements. Go figure.

  29. For the person asking for credentials, yes indeed I am Democrat and a good one. My values include fairness in processes. To include only side and to not even notify or invite the university indicates just how insecure this group is in their opinions. As a Democrat, I want nothing to do with fixed outcomes. I leave that to the Reps.

  30. For the person asking for credentials, yes indeed I am Democrat and a good one. My values include fairness in processes. To include only side and to not even notify or invite the university indicates just how insecure this group is in their opinions. As a Democrat, I want nothing to do with fixed outcomes. I leave that to the Reps.

  31. For the person asking for credentials, yes indeed I am Democrat and a good one. My values include fairness in processes. To include only side and to not even notify or invite the university indicates just how insecure this group is in their opinions. As a Democrat, I want nothing to do with fixed outcomes. I leave that to the Reps.

  32. For the person asking for credentials, yes indeed I am Democrat and a good one. My values include fairness in processes. To include only side and to not even notify or invite the university indicates just how insecure this group is in their opinions. As a Democrat, I want nothing to do with fixed outcomes. I leave that to the Reps.

  33. I don’t know what the percentage is, I don’t care. There are people who work for that company that rely on that wage to survive. They rely on those benefits to keep their family alive. Go talk to some of those workers, and then come back here and tell us what you think. This is not about expanding union membership, the amount of union membership here is nominal at best. The people of faith who took their personal time to advocate on the behalf the workers did not do so to expand union membership, they did it because they believe that this is injust.

  34. I don’t know what the percentage is, I don’t care. There are people who work for that company that rely on that wage to survive. They rely on those benefits to keep their family alive. Go talk to some of those workers, and then come back here and tell us what you think. This is not about expanding union membership, the amount of union membership here is nominal at best. The people of faith who took their personal time to advocate on the behalf the workers did not do so to expand union membership, they did it because they believe that this is injust.

  35. I don’t know what the percentage is, I don’t care. There are people who work for that company that rely on that wage to survive. They rely on those benefits to keep their family alive. Go talk to some of those workers, and then come back here and tell us what you think. This is not about expanding union membership, the amount of union membership here is nominal at best. The people of faith who took their personal time to advocate on the behalf the workers did not do so to expand union membership, they did it because they believe that this is injust.

  36. I don’t know what the percentage is, I don’t care. There are people who work for that company that rely on that wage to survive. They rely on those benefits to keep their family alive. Go talk to some of those workers, and then come back here and tell us what you think. This is not about expanding union membership, the amount of union membership here is nominal at best. The people of faith who took their personal time to advocate on the behalf the workers did not do so to expand union membership, they did it because they believe that this is injust.

  37. DPD,
    I did talk to and work with the people for many years. I saw the unions come in and extreme divisivness begin. The people being forced to pay fair share and not getting even adequate help from those that steal from them is the problem.
    YOU go talk to them and find out what this about and come back and let us know what you think. That way you’ll know what you’re talking about. While you’re at it find out what the top union officials earn,(wrong word), per year and tell us where they get the money.

  38. DPD,
    I did talk to and work with the people for many years. I saw the unions come in and extreme divisivness begin. The people being forced to pay fair share and not getting even adequate help from those that steal from them is the problem.
    YOU go talk to them and find out what this about and come back and let us know what you think. That way you’ll know what you’re talking about. While you’re at it find out what the top union officials earn,(wrong word), per year and tell us where they get the money.

  39. DPD,
    I did talk to and work with the people for many years. I saw the unions come in and extreme divisivness begin. The people being forced to pay fair share and not getting even adequate help from those that steal from them is the problem.
    YOU go talk to them and find out what this about and come back and let us know what you think. That way you’ll know what you’re talking about. While you’re at it find out what the top union officials earn,(wrong word), per year and tell us where they get the money.

  40. DPD,
    I did talk to and work with the people for many years. I saw the unions come in and extreme divisivness begin. The people being forced to pay fair share and not getting even adequate help from those that steal from them is the problem.
    YOU go talk to them and find out what this about and come back and let us know what you think. That way you’ll know what you’re talking about. While you’re at it find out what the top union officials earn,(wrong word), per year and tell us where they get the money.

  41. It is about union membership. In fact, note that the employees have the legal right to organize a union election at any time. Why haven’t they? Because they are afraid they won’t be able to win the election. That is why they the union wants them to become univ. employees first. That way they are automatically enrolled in the union.

    I give credit to the people of faith like yourself. My point is simply that the issue is much more complex than the Demo. Central Committee would like it to be. Certainly reasonable people can come down on either side of the issue. My only point was that the Central Committee should not be taking positions on issues where it has not heard both sides or given both sides an opportunity to present their case. It’s unfair and does not reflect well on the Central Committee. If you want the Sodexho workers to become unionized that’s your right, but I would take time to fully understand the ramifications of the action before I unilaterally choose a side.

  42. It is about union membership. In fact, note that the employees have the legal right to organize a union election at any time. Why haven’t they? Because they are afraid they won’t be able to win the election. That is why they the union wants them to become univ. employees first. That way they are automatically enrolled in the union.

    I give credit to the people of faith like yourself. My point is simply that the issue is much more complex than the Demo. Central Committee would like it to be. Certainly reasonable people can come down on either side of the issue. My only point was that the Central Committee should not be taking positions on issues where it has not heard both sides or given both sides an opportunity to present their case. It’s unfair and does not reflect well on the Central Committee. If you want the Sodexho workers to become unionized that’s your right, but I would take time to fully understand the ramifications of the action before I unilaterally choose a side.

  43. It is about union membership. In fact, note that the employees have the legal right to organize a union election at any time. Why haven’t they? Because they are afraid they won’t be able to win the election. That is why they the union wants them to become univ. employees first. That way they are automatically enrolled in the union.

    I give credit to the people of faith like yourself. My point is simply that the issue is much more complex than the Demo. Central Committee would like it to be. Certainly reasonable people can come down on either side of the issue. My only point was that the Central Committee should not be taking positions on issues where it has not heard both sides or given both sides an opportunity to present their case. It’s unfair and does not reflect well on the Central Committee. If you want the Sodexho workers to become unionized that’s your right, but I would take time to fully understand the ramifications of the action before I unilaterally choose a side.

  44. It is about union membership. In fact, note that the employees have the legal right to organize a union election at any time. Why haven’t they? Because they are afraid they won’t be able to win the election. That is why they the union wants them to become univ. employees first. That way they are automatically enrolled in the union.

    I give credit to the people of faith like yourself. My point is simply that the issue is much more complex than the Demo. Central Committee would like it to be. Certainly reasonable people can come down on either side of the issue. My only point was that the Central Committee should not be taking positions on issues where it has not heard both sides or given both sides an opportunity to present their case. It’s unfair and does not reflect well on the Central Committee. If you want the Sodexho workers to become unionized that’s your right, but I would take time to fully understand the ramifications of the action before I unilaterally choose a side.

  45. You are absolutely wrong anonymous. Sodexho is actually a notorious union busting organization. They have fired people for even breathing the word union. So to suggest that they could become unionized is incorrect. (Google Sodexho and Union Busting if interested).

    Second Christopher Cabaldon made the key point the other night. The only reason for the university to outsource is to save money on the backs of these workers. UC Davis is the only university that still outsources food service workers.

  46. You are absolutely wrong anonymous. Sodexho is actually a notorious union busting organization. They have fired people for even breathing the word union. So to suggest that they could become unionized is incorrect. (Google Sodexho and Union Busting if interested).

    Second Christopher Cabaldon made the key point the other night. The only reason for the university to outsource is to save money on the backs of these workers. UC Davis is the only university that still outsources food service workers.

  47. You are absolutely wrong anonymous. Sodexho is actually a notorious union busting organization. They have fired people for even breathing the word union. So to suggest that they could become unionized is incorrect. (Google Sodexho and Union Busting if interested).

    Second Christopher Cabaldon made the key point the other night. The only reason for the university to outsource is to save money on the backs of these workers. UC Davis is the only university that still outsources food service workers.

  48. You are absolutely wrong anonymous. Sodexho is actually a notorious union busting organization. They have fired people for even breathing the word union. So to suggest that they could become unionized is incorrect. (Google Sodexho and Union Busting if interested).

    Second Christopher Cabaldon made the key point the other night. The only reason for the university to outsource is to save money on the backs of these workers. UC Davis is the only university that still outsources food service workers.

  49. No, I am not wrong. Sodexho may well be a union busting company but even union busters are governed by applicable laws that restrict them from interfering in or preventing lawful elections to determine if the employees are interested in organizing. You seem very confused on this topic and I would encourage you to sit down with some
    one who is knowledgeable to help you sort it out. You may not change your position but at least you would begin to have a factual understanding of the issue. The FACT is the employees have, to date, not chosen to organize to join a union. Yet they are free to whenever they choose. This appears to be largely because there is insufficient interest in joining the union. That is why the union is pressing to have them made univ. employees – so they will be automatically enrolled.

    And yes, Christopher was right. The univ. wants to outsource because it is cheaper and yes, UCD is the only UC to still outsource its food employees. Why is this? To keep costs down. Who pays the costs? Well, the students! That’s right, it is the student’s, at least those who live in the dorms who will have their costs increased when/if the employees become univ. employees. So you are advocating along with the other uninformed Dems that student costs increase so you can please a labor union. Way to go! Again, you may learn all the facts and still arrive at the same conclusion, but David, please at least get a basic grasp of the facts first. I guess that’s the difference between you and I. I think a reasonable, informed person can evaluate this issue and still come down in favor of unionization. You, on the other hand, support an unfair and fixed central committee process and apparently can’t abide anyone raising other factual issues. That, my friend, is the sign of an ideologue, not a thinker.

    Thanks.

    Incidentally, those UC’s that have gone to labor unions for food service report both higher costs and more problems. Again, just another fact for you.

    Thanks.

  50. No, I am not wrong. Sodexho may well be a union busting company but even union busters are governed by applicable laws that restrict them from interfering in or preventing lawful elections to determine if the employees are interested in organizing. You seem very confused on this topic and I would encourage you to sit down with some
    one who is knowledgeable to help you sort it out. You may not change your position but at least you would begin to have a factual understanding of the issue. The FACT is the employees have, to date, not chosen to organize to join a union. Yet they are free to whenever they choose. This appears to be largely because there is insufficient interest in joining the union. That is why the union is pressing to have them made univ. employees – so they will be automatically enrolled.

    And yes, Christopher was right. The univ. wants to outsource because it is cheaper and yes, UCD is the only UC to still outsource its food employees. Why is this? To keep costs down. Who pays the costs? Well, the students! That’s right, it is the student’s, at least those who live in the dorms who will have their costs increased when/if the employees become univ. employees. So you are advocating along with the other uninformed Dems that student costs increase so you can please a labor union. Way to go! Again, you may learn all the facts and still arrive at the same conclusion, but David, please at least get a basic grasp of the facts first. I guess that’s the difference between you and I. I think a reasonable, informed person can evaluate this issue and still come down in favor of unionization. You, on the other hand, support an unfair and fixed central committee process and apparently can’t abide anyone raising other factual issues. That, my friend, is the sign of an ideologue, not a thinker.

    Thanks.

    Incidentally, those UC’s that have gone to labor unions for food service report both higher costs and more problems. Again, just another fact for you.

    Thanks.

  51. No, I am not wrong. Sodexho may well be a union busting company but even union busters are governed by applicable laws that restrict them from interfering in or preventing lawful elections to determine if the employees are interested in organizing. You seem very confused on this topic and I would encourage you to sit down with some
    one who is knowledgeable to help you sort it out. You may not change your position but at least you would begin to have a factual understanding of the issue. The FACT is the employees have, to date, not chosen to organize to join a union. Yet they are free to whenever they choose. This appears to be largely because there is insufficient interest in joining the union. That is why the union is pressing to have them made univ. employees – so they will be automatically enrolled.

    And yes, Christopher was right. The univ. wants to outsource because it is cheaper and yes, UCD is the only UC to still outsource its food employees. Why is this? To keep costs down. Who pays the costs? Well, the students! That’s right, it is the student’s, at least those who live in the dorms who will have their costs increased when/if the employees become univ. employees. So you are advocating along with the other uninformed Dems that student costs increase so you can please a labor union. Way to go! Again, you may learn all the facts and still arrive at the same conclusion, but David, please at least get a basic grasp of the facts first. I guess that’s the difference between you and I. I think a reasonable, informed person can evaluate this issue and still come down in favor of unionization. You, on the other hand, support an unfair and fixed central committee process and apparently can’t abide anyone raising other factual issues. That, my friend, is the sign of an ideologue, not a thinker.

    Thanks.

    Incidentally, those UC’s that have gone to labor unions for food service report both higher costs and more problems. Again, just another fact for you.

    Thanks.

  52. No, I am not wrong. Sodexho may well be a union busting company but even union busters are governed by applicable laws that restrict them from interfering in or preventing lawful elections to determine if the employees are interested in organizing. You seem very confused on this topic and I would encourage you to sit down with some
    one who is knowledgeable to help you sort it out. You may not change your position but at least you would begin to have a factual understanding of the issue. The FACT is the employees have, to date, not chosen to organize to join a union. Yet they are free to whenever they choose. This appears to be largely because there is insufficient interest in joining the union. That is why the union is pressing to have them made univ. employees – so they will be automatically enrolled.

    And yes, Christopher was right. The univ. wants to outsource because it is cheaper and yes, UCD is the only UC to still outsource its food employees. Why is this? To keep costs down. Who pays the costs? Well, the students! That’s right, it is the student’s, at least those who live in the dorms who will have their costs increased when/if the employees become univ. employees. So you are advocating along with the other uninformed Dems that student costs increase so you can please a labor union. Way to go! Again, you may learn all the facts and still arrive at the same conclusion, but David, please at least get a basic grasp of the facts first. I guess that’s the difference between you and I. I think a reasonable, informed person can evaluate this issue and still come down in favor of unionization. You, on the other hand, support an unfair and fixed central committee process and apparently can’t abide anyone raising other factual issues. That, my friend, is the sign of an ideologue, not a thinker.

    Thanks.

    Incidentally, those UC’s that have gone to labor unions for food service report both higher costs and more problems. Again, just another fact for you.

    Thanks.

  53. That’s why I said, you need to talk to these employees. I have a couple of interviews on the blog check them out, pretty harrowing stories. Sodexho is a monster.

    When you say they are governed by applicable laws, you forget, the people affected are not in a position to challenge Sodexho legally. They lack resources to file a law suit. They lack time to wait until the appropriate action can be taken. The deck is stacked against them.

    If you are interested, I can arrange for you to talk to some of the workers. But I’m guessing rhetoric aside, you aren’t that open-minded.

  54. That’s why I said, you need to talk to these employees. I have a couple of interviews on the blog check them out, pretty harrowing stories. Sodexho is a monster.

    When you say they are governed by applicable laws, you forget, the people affected are not in a position to challenge Sodexho legally. They lack resources to file a law suit. They lack time to wait until the appropriate action can be taken. The deck is stacked against them.

    If you are interested, I can arrange for you to talk to some of the workers. But I’m guessing rhetoric aside, you aren’t that open-minded.

  55. That’s why I said, you need to talk to these employees. I have a couple of interviews on the blog check them out, pretty harrowing stories. Sodexho is a monster.

    When you say they are governed by applicable laws, you forget, the people affected are not in a position to challenge Sodexho legally. They lack resources to file a law suit. They lack time to wait until the appropriate action can be taken. The deck is stacked against them.

    If you are interested, I can arrange for you to talk to some of the workers. But I’m guessing rhetoric aside, you aren’t that open-minded.

  56. That’s why I said, you need to talk to these employees. I have a couple of interviews on the blog check them out, pretty harrowing stories. Sodexho is a monster.

    When you say they are governed by applicable laws, you forget, the people affected are not in a position to challenge Sodexho legally. They lack resources to file a law suit. They lack time to wait until the appropriate action can be taken. The deck is stacked against them.

    If you are interested, I can arrange for you to talk to some of the workers. But I’m guessing rhetoric aside, you aren’t that open-minded.

  57. Next we’re going to hear that the Democrats cannot endorse Lois Wolk unless they talk to Greg Aghazerian, just to be fair. Give me a break. The Central Committee is going to support core Democratic values, any Democrat who does not support the Sodexho workers, I have to question.

  58. Next we’re going to hear that the Democrats cannot endorse Lois Wolk unless they talk to Greg Aghazerian, just to be fair. Give me a break. The Central Committee is going to support core Democratic values, any Democrat who does not support the Sodexho workers, I have to question.

  59. Next we’re going to hear that the Democrats cannot endorse Lois Wolk unless they talk to Greg Aghazerian, just to be fair. Give me a break. The Central Committee is going to support core Democratic values, any Democrat who does not support the Sodexho workers, I have to question.

  60. Next we’re going to hear that the Democrats cannot endorse Lois Wolk unless they talk to Greg Aghazerian, just to be fair. Give me a break. The Central Committee is going to support core Democratic values, any Democrat who does not support the Sodexho workers, I have to question.

  61. David:

    That’s just the thing. I have talked to them and I know employees who support the union and those who don’t. I never said Sodexho was perfect but I do know the employees can call for union election and are protected by existing law.

  62. David:

    That’s just the thing. I have talked to them and I know employees who support the union and those who don’t. I never said Sodexho was perfect but I do know the employees can call for union election and are protected by existing law.

  63. David:

    That’s just the thing. I have talked to them and I know employees who support the union and those who don’t. I never said Sodexho was perfect but I do know the employees can call for union election and are protected by existing law.

  64. David:

    That’s just the thing. I have talked to them and I know employees who support the union and those who don’t. I never said Sodexho was perfect but I do know the employees can call for union election and are protected by existing law.

  65. To 9:52 p.m.

    If you’re not interested in at a minimum, understanding both sides then you may be a Democrat but I would not put you in the ranks of the smarter ones. Core Democratic values are of fairness, openess and a dedication to the truth. Knee jerk responses to labor unions are no different than knee jerk responses to corporations. And if the university is such a terrible place why do you advocate working there so ardently?

  66. To 9:52 p.m.

    If you’re not interested in at a minimum, understanding both sides then you may be a Democrat but I would not put you in the ranks of the smarter ones. Core Democratic values are of fairness, openess and a dedication to the truth. Knee jerk responses to labor unions are no different than knee jerk responses to corporations. And if the university is such a terrible place why do you advocate working there so ardently?

  67. To 9:52 p.m.

    If you’re not interested in at a minimum, understanding both sides then you may be a Democrat but I would not put you in the ranks of the smarter ones. Core Democratic values are of fairness, openess and a dedication to the truth. Knee jerk responses to labor unions are no different than knee jerk responses to corporations. And if the university is such a terrible place why do you advocate working there so ardently?

  68. To 9:52 p.m.

    If you’re not interested in at a minimum, understanding both sides then you may be a Democrat but I would not put you in the ranks of the smarter ones. Core Democratic values are of fairness, openess and a dedication to the truth. Knee jerk responses to labor unions are no different than knee jerk responses to corporations. And if the university is such a terrible place why do you advocate working there so ardently?

  69. Wait a second! DPD! I like you but someone just told me that you are married to a union official. Is that true? If so, shouldn’t you have disclosed that?

    This might be a good blog topic for you to start: What role does full disclosure play in a blog? Should the author be disclosing when he has a conflict of interest? Tell me what you think. Thanks!

  70. Wait a second! DPD! I like you but someone just told me that you are married to a union official. Is that true? If so, shouldn’t you have disclosed that?

    This might be a good blog topic for you to start: What role does full disclosure play in a blog? Should the author be disclosing when he has a conflict of interest? Tell me what you think. Thanks!

  71. Wait a second! DPD! I like you but someone just told me that you are married to a union official. Is that true? If so, shouldn’t you have disclosed that?

    This might be a good blog topic for you to start: What role does full disclosure play in a blog? Should the author be disclosing when he has a conflict of interest? Tell me what you think. Thanks!

  72. Wait a second! DPD! I like you but someone just told me that you are married to a union official. Is that true? If so, shouldn’t you have disclosed that?

    This might be a good blog topic for you to start: What role does full disclosure play in a blog? Should the author be disclosing when he has a conflict of interest? Tell me what you think. Thanks!

  73. Yes my wife works for a union. The union she works for has no affiliation or connection with the union that would represent the workers should they become unionized. She would not benefit financially from the Sodexho workers becoming university employees. Neither would I. There is no conflict of interest.

    I support these workers becoming full university employees so that they can earn the wages and benefits and enjoy the projections associated with university employee status. For me this is an issue of social justice and worker’s rights.

    If you want to direct me to Sodexho workers who oppose such a move, I would happily interview them as I think that would be an important story.

  74. Yes my wife works for a union. The union she works for has no affiliation or connection with the union that would represent the workers should they become unionized. She would not benefit financially from the Sodexho workers becoming university employees. Neither would I. There is no conflict of interest.

    I support these workers becoming full university employees so that they can earn the wages and benefits and enjoy the projections associated with university employee status. For me this is an issue of social justice and worker’s rights.

    If you want to direct me to Sodexho workers who oppose such a move, I would happily interview them as I think that would be an important story.

  75. Yes my wife works for a union. The union she works for has no affiliation or connection with the union that would represent the workers should they become unionized. She would not benefit financially from the Sodexho workers becoming university employees. Neither would I. There is no conflict of interest.

    I support these workers becoming full university employees so that they can earn the wages and benefits and enjoy the projections associated with university employee status. For me this is an issue of social justice and worker’s rights.

    If you want to direct me to Sodexho workers who oppose such a move, I would happily interview them as I think that would be an important story.

  76. Yes my wife works for a union. The union she works for has no affiliation or connection with the union that would represent the workers should they become unionized. She would not benefit financially from the Sodexho workers becoming university employees. Neither would I. There is no conflict of interest.

    I support these workers becoming full university employees so that they can earn the wages and benefits and enjoy the projections associated with university employee status. For me this is an issue of social justice and worker’s rights.

    If you want to direct me to Sodexho workers who oppose such a move, I would happily interview them as I think that would be an important story.

  77. DPD. I understand. I never meant to imply that you were somehow benefiting from the decision. But I do appreciate your disclosing that you are married to a union spouse simply because I think it’s important to know. I also believe you’re being sincere when you say that for you it’s a matter of worker’s rights. I am not being hostile with you. I do think it’s an interesting issue for bloggers though. Regardless, I am very appreciative of your forthrightness. Thank you.

  78. DPD. I understand. I never meant to imply that you were somehow benefiting from the decision. But I do appreciate your disclosing that you are married to a union spouse simply because I think it’s important to know. I also believe you’re being sincere when you say that for you it’s a matter of worker’s rights. I am not being hostile with you. I do think it’s an interesting issue for bloggers though. Regardless, I am very appreciative of your forthrightness. Thank you.

  79. DPD. I understand. I never meant to imply that you were somehow benefiting from the decision. But I do appreciate your disclosing that you are married to a union spouse simply because I think it’s important to know. I also believe you’re being sincere when you say that for you it’s a matter of worker’s rights. I am not being hostile with you. I do think it’s an interesting issue for bloggers though. Regardless, I am very appreciative of your forthrightness. Thank you.

  80. DPD. I understand. I never meant to imply that you were somehow benefiting from the decision. But I do appreciate your disclosing that you are married to a union spouse simply because I think it’s important to know. I also believe you’re being sincere when you say that for you it’s a matter of worker’s rights. I am not being hostile with you. I do think it’s an interesting issue for bloggers though. Regardless, I am very appreciative of your forthrightness. Thank you.

  81. dpd,
    A union rep is a union rep no matter what union. You are out to lunch on this one and won’t admit it. Public emloyee union reps are pretty worthless as are most union reps, (some exceptions), that I have dealt with. They steal from the taxpayers and the employee. No more for me on YOUR UNION VANGUARD.

  82. dpd,
    A union rep is a union rep no matter what union. You are out to lunch on this one and won’t admit it. Public emloyee union reps are pretty worthless as are most union reps, (some exceptions), that I have dealt with. They steal from the taxpayers and the employee. No more for me on YOUR UNION VANGUARD.

  83. dpd,
    A union rep is a union rep no matter what union. You are out to lunch on this one and won’t admit it. Public emloyee union reps are pretty worthless as are most union reps, (some exceptions), that I have dealt with. They steal from the taxpayers and the employee. No more for me on YOUR UNION VANGUARD.

  84. dpd,
    A union rep is a union rep no matter what union. You are out to lunch on this one and won’t admit it. Public emloyee union reps are pretty worthless as are most union reps, (some exceptions), that I have dealt with. They steal from the taxpayers and the employee. No more for me on YOUR UNION VANGUARD.

  85. dpd
    It is the right of Sodexho to protect their interests. You or anybody else can call them union busters. They have the right to do so. I do not agree that DPD was forthright in his admission of his union rep spouse. Had it not been brought up would he have said anything?
    Would that be interpreted as an omission of truth? Direct YOURSELF to campus or sodexho workers and find it out for YOURSELF just what the union does for and represents for them. Get off the couch and do it yourself.
    In addition you have dodged some issues that people have brought up here.

  86. dpd
    It is the right of Sodexho to protect their interests. You or anybody else can call them union busters. They have the right to do so. I do not agree that DPD was forthright in his admission of his union rep spouse. Had it not been brought up would he have said anything?
    Would that be interpreted as an omission of truth? Direct YOURSELF to campus or sodexho workers and find it out for YOURSELF just what the union does for and represents for them. Get off the couch and do it yourself.
    In addition you have dodged some issues that people have brought up here.

  87. dpd
    It is the right of Sodexho to protect their interests. You or anybody else can call them union busters. They have the right to do so. I do not agree that DPD was forthright in his admission of his union rep spouse. Had it not been brought up would he have said anything?
    Would that be interpreted as an omission of truth? Direct YOURSELF to campus or sodexho workers and find it out for YOURSELF just what the union does for and represents for them. Get off the couch and do it yourself.
    In addition you have dodged some issues that people have brought up here.

  88. dpd
    It is the right of Sodexho to protect their interests. You or anybody else can call them union busters. They have the right to do so. I do not agree that DPD was forthright in his admission of his union rep spouse. Had it not been brought up would he have said anything?
    Would that be interpreted as an omission of truth? Direct YOURSELF to campus or sodexho workers and find it out for YOURSELF just what the union does for and represents for them. Get off the couch and do it yourself.
    In addition you have dodged some issues that people have brought up here.

  89. “It is the right of Sodexho to protect their interests. You or anybody else can call them union busters. They have the right to do so.”

    It all depends on how they do it of course. I invite you to read the interview I did in September with some of the workers.

    “I do not agree that DPD was forthright in his admission of his union rep spouse. Had it not been brought up would he have said anything?”

    I do not understand why this is an issue. If my spouse worked for the same union, I would see that as a valid point. I guess I should also point out that I have worked for unions and been a member of at least two separate unions. Does that really change the facts on the ground? I am pro union, I am pro Sodexho worker, I am pro the Sodexho workers becoming university employees. I feel like I have been very upfront about that fact.

    “Direct YOURSELF to campus or sodexho workers and find it out for YOURSELF just what the union does for and represents for them. Get off the couch and do it yourself.”

    I suggest you read through this blog before you accuse me of sitting on the couch here. I’ve been probably to ten different locations in covering this ongoing story since last May.

    “In addition you have dodged some issues that people have brought up here.”

    What else would you like me to address?

  90. “It is the right of Sodexho to protect their interests. You or anybody else can call them union busters. They have the right to do so.”

    It all depends on how they do it of course. I invite you to read the interview I did in September with some of the workers.

    “I do not agree that DPD was forthright in his admission of his union rep spouse. Had it not been brought up would he have said anything?”

    I do not understand why this is an issue. If my spouse worked for the same union, I would see that as a valid point. I guess I should also point out that I have worked for unions and been a member of at least two separate unions. Does that really change the facts on the ground? I am pro union, I am pro Sodexho worker, I am pro the Sodexho workers becoming university employees. I feel like I have been very upfront about that fact.

    “Direct YOURSELF to campus or sodexho workers and find it out for YOURSELF just what the union does for and represents for them. Get off the couch and do it yourself.”

    I suggest you read through this blog before you accuse me of sitting on the couch here. I’ve been probably to ten different locations in covering this ongoing story since last May.

    “In addition you have dodged some issues that people have brought up here.”

    What else would you like me to address?

  91. “It is the right of Sodexho to protect their interests. You or anybody else can call them union busters. They have the right to do so.”

    It all depends on how they do it of course. I invite you to read the interview I did in September with some of the workers.

    “I do not agree that DPD was forthright in his admission of his union rep spouse. Had it not been brought up would he have said anything?”

    I do not understand why this is an issue. If my spouse worked for the same union, I would see that as a valid point. I guess I should also point out that I have worked for unions and been a member of at least two separate unions. Does that really change the facts on the ground? I am pro union, I am pro Sodexho worker, I am pro the Sodexho workers becoming university employees. I feel like I have been very upfront about that fact.

    “Direct YOURSELF to campus or sodexho workers and find it out for YOURSELF just what the union does for and represents for them. Get off the couch and do it yourself.”

    I suggest you read through this blog before you accuse me of sitting on the couch here. I’ve been probably to ten different locations in covering this ongoing story since last May.

    “In addition you have dodged some issues that people have brought up here.”

    What else would you like me to address?

  92. “It is the right of Sodexho to protect their interests. You or anybody else can call them union busters. They have the right to do so.”

    It all depends on how they do it of course. I invite you to read the interview I did in September with some of the workers.

    “I do not agree that DPD was forthright in his admission of his union rep spouse. Had it not been brought up would he have said anything?”

    I do not understand why this is an issue. If my spouse worked for the same union, I would see that as a valid point. I guess I should also point out that I have worked for unions and been a member of at least two separate unions. Does that really change the facts on the ground? I am pro union, I am pro Sodexho worker, I am pro the Sodexho workers becoming university employees. I feel like I have been very upfront about that fact.

    “Direct YOURSELF to campus or sodexho workers and find it out for YOURSELF just what the union does for and represents for them. Get off the couch and do it yourself.”

    I suggest you read through this blog before you accuse me of sitting on the couch here. I’ve been probably to ten different locations in covering this ongoing story since last May.

    “In addition you have dodged some issues that people have brought up here.”

    What else would you like me to address?

  93. Contracting out is awful. Just as awful is the state of California’s public education system as a whole. Schwarzenegger stated that 2008 “is the year of education” and then turned around and proposes cutting ridiculous amounts from the education budget and other social services. Tuition at UC and Cal State is higher than ever and students are suffering from a lack of resources in K-12 schools.
    I think right now the best thing you can do is help and support the College and University Fees Ballot Initiative, which would allocate around $1 billion to our public schools over 5 years, freezing tuition increases at UC and Cal State and helping prop our K-12 schools.
    Now more than ever our schools need all the support that we can give them. You will volunteers in yellow shirts around Davis petitioning signatures to ensure this initiative makes it to the ballot in November, make sure to sign it!

  94. Contracting out is awful. Just as awful is the state of California’s public education system as a whole. Schwarzenegger stated that 2008 “is the year of education” and then turned around and proposes cutting ridiculous amounts from the education budget and other social services. Tuition at UC and Cal State is higher than ever and students are suffering from a lack of resources in K-12 schools.
    I think right now the best thing you can do is help and support the College and University Fees Ballot Initiative, which would allocate around $1 billion to our public schools over 5 years, freezing tuition increases at UC and Cal State and helping prop our K-12 schools.
    Now more than ever our schools need all the support that we can give them. You will volunteers in yellow shirts around Davis petitioning signatures to ensure this initiative makes it to the ballot in November, make sure to sign it!

  95. Contracting out is awful. Just as awful is the state of California’s public education system as a whole. Schwarzenegger stated that 2008 “is the year of education” and then turned around and proposes cutting ridiculous amounts from the education budget and other social services. Tuition at UC and Cal State is higher than ever and students are suffering from a lack of resources in K-12 schools.
    I think right now the best thing you can do is help and support the College and University Fees Ballot Initiative, which would allocate around $1 billion to our public schools over 5 years, freezing tuition increases at UC and Cal State and helping prop our K-12 schools.
    Now more than ever our schools need all the support that we can give them. You will volunteers in yellow shirts around Davis petitioning signatures to ensure this initiative makes it to the ballot in November, make sure to sign it!

  96. Contracting out is awful. Just as awful is the state of California’s public education system as a whole. Schwarzenegger stated that 2008 “is the year of education” and then turned around and proposes cutting ridiculous amounts from the education budget and other social services. Tuition at UC and Cal State is higher than ever and students are suffering from a lack of resources in K-12 schools.
    I think right now the best thing you can do is help and support the College and University Fees Ballot Initiative, which would allocate around $1 billion to our public schools over 5 years, freezing tuition increases at UC and Cal State and helping prop our K-12 schools.
    Now more than ever our schools need all the support that we can give them. You will volunteers in yellow shirts around Davis petitioning signatures to ensure this initiative makes it to the ballot in November, make sure to sign it!

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