FAQs Draft

There are many things you can do to support the members of other unions, which are covered below. Article 9 of the APC contract includes a provision that prohibits joining other unions on strike, also known as “Sympathy Strikes”.

A Sympathy Strike is when an employee stops working to support another union that is on strike, even though their own union isn’t on strike.

For all unit 4 employees, this type of strike is prohibited under the current contract, meaning employees cannot withhold work in support of another union’s strike action. (Article 9.1)

Absolutely! Before work, after work, lunchtime, on your breaktime, or on your regular day off or pre-approved time off.  We encourage you to support fellow CSU employees, as permitted.

Yes, an employee may always request vacation/personal holiday/compensatory time off (CTO) time whenever they see fit. Of course, such requests are subject to the normal approval process in your department. If you do have pre-approved time off, you may support the strike.

You are not allowed to call in sick in order to join or support another union’s strike. If you are considering joining a strike line while on sick leave, discuss potential implications with your campus steward. (Article 9.5)

Employees may still use sick leave whenever they are sick, have doctor appointments, etc. but not for the purpose of joining another union’s strike line. If you get questioned by your supervisor, contact your campus steward for guidance.

There may be consequences. You could be deemed AWOL, reprimanded, pay could be docked, it may reflect on your performance evaluation, and more.

Employees cannot refuse to work during another union’s strike. (Article 9.4)

We respect that some members may have strong personal or moral beliefs about honoring picket lines.

However, under the current contract, employees are still required to report to work and perform their duties, even during another union’s strike. Refusing to cross a picket line may be treated as an unexcused absence and could lead to discipline.

If you have concerns about your specific situation, you are encouraged to contact your campus steward for guidance.

Yes, it is lawful to request that CSU provide a work location that does not require you to cross a picket line, including working remotely from your home. However, approval is not guaranteed. If your request is denied, you are still expected to report to work and perform your duties as assigned.

Please notify your campus steward if the request is denied so the denial can be investigated. Remember, “obey now – grieve later.”

You can wear your APC shirt, buttons, and stickers, or other items provided by the striking union.  Show your support and let striking members know you support them whenever you see them.