New York City is one of the most expensive cities in the country. For the average student, after paying taxes, rent, and buying the basic necessities, we are left with very little. Many of our students have extenuating circumstances that force them to find alternative income, delaying their graduation and distracting them from research and teaching.

We deserve fair pay and pay parity with our peer institutions. We are fighting for:

• A living wage: $68k for all PhD student workers

• Parity between workers on 9-month appointments and 12-month appointments

• 5% annual raise or cost-of-living adjustments

• A substantial increase to the health fund

• Protections for existing insurance coverage

We know that non-citizen workers are essential to Columbia’s research and teaching missions. These students deserve to feel safe at Columbia despite rapidly changing federal policies. This includes:

• Expanded legal and financial support.

• Equitable employment conditions for workers facing immigration challenges.

Every worker at Columbia deserves to have a workplace free from harassment and discrimination. Our last contract won historic protections.