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The University of Minnesota Labor Education Service is offering labor studies skills courses that provide a foundation in “nuts & bolts” areas important to working people. Basic Steward Training is Oct. 29. Collective Bargaining is Nov. 12 and 19.
The classes, which are non-credit, are open to all. Sessions are held on the University’s Minneapolis campus, except for Introduction to the Labor Movement, which is offered online. New this year is a course on “The Labor Movement & Mass Incarceration.”
Download a registration form at the LES website, or call 612-624-5020 for more information.
Here is the 2016-2017 schedule for courses in the Twin Cities:
Basic Steward Training
Saturday, Oct. 29, 2016
9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
This course is designed for new stewards and members who want to become a steward. Topics covered include a steward’s rights, roles, and responsibilities; how to conduct a grievance investigation; writing and presenting grievances; and day-to-day problem solving. Registration deadline is Oct. 21. Tuition is $50.
Collective Bargaining 1 & 2
Saturdays, Nov. 12 & Nov. 19, 2016
9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
This two-session course is for new bargaining committee members and others who want to understand the process of bargaining a contract. It includes preparing for bargaining, negotiations strategies and tactics and a collective bargaining simulation. Registration deadline is Nov. 4. Tuition is $100.
Introduction to the Labor Movement (Online)
Jan. 30 – March 31, 2017
This online, introductory class provides an overview of the labor movement—its successes and challenges—in a global context. Learn the structure, organization and evolution of the movement, the impact of union membership on workers and communities, and discuss future directions for the labor movement. Registration deadline is Jan. 20, 2017. Tuition is $50.
The Labor Movement & Mass Incarceration
Saturday, April 22, 2017
10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Over the past 30 years, the number of people who are incarcerated in the U.S. has grown from 300,000 to over 2.2 million, disproportionately impacting communities of color and poor people. Meanwhile, labor unions represent thousands of workers who staff the jails, prisons, and detention facilities across the United States. Although the labor movement and the movement to end mass incarceration appear to be at odds, this course will examine the common ground between the two movements and explore possible avenues for collaboration. Registration deadline is April 14, 2017. Tuition is $50.
Advanced Grievance Handling
Wednesday, May 17, 2017
5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
This course is designed for union stewards and leaders who want to improve their ability to investigate, present and write grievances. It is a more advanced class that will build on the skills learned in basic steward training. Registration deadline is May 5, 2017. Tuition is $50.