What We've Fought For
Non-discrimination
A primary motivation for unionization at Caltech was the discriminatory and abusive working conditions experienced by one too many graduate students and postdocs. During the We Keep Us Safe rally and the Mass Membership Meeting in 2024 workers spoke up about these grave instances of injustice.
Through mass action and collective power we forced Caltech’s administration to agree to the strongest non-discrimination protections in a higher-education union contract. Survivors no longer need to resort to Title IX – workers can now file grievances and obtain timely remedies.
If you are experiencing discrimination or harassment in your working conditions, reach out to a steward to figure out your options.
Safe working conditions
The health and safety of our community has been a key motivator for our union. When wildfires were ravaging Los Angeles, – GSWs and Postdocs stepped up to distribute masks and other supplies to all members of the Caltech community.
At our majority rally we heard stories of how workers in GPS were exposed to known hazards during a field trip, contracted preventable illnesses by not being provided the appropriate protective equipment, and then had their experiences covered up by the Institute Health Committee. During this contract cycle and through the future of our union we will work to ensure that your health and safety is a priority for Caltech.
If your working conditions are unsafe, you have recourse! Learn more about your options here.
Protecting science and funding for research
Since inauguration, U.S. President Donald Trump has directed the National Science Foundation, the National Institute of Health and the Department of Energy to deny future grant applications and hold back grants that have been awarded – in violation of US Law. The UAW has filed multiple lawsuits fighting back against these cuts.
We have also reached out to members of the legislative branch – Congresswoman Judy Chu (CA-28) and Congressman George Whitesides came to our campus in July 2025 to attend a town hall. Scientists from JPL and Caltech spoke against funding cuts to science. As of August 2025 the bills being discussed for FY2026 in Congress do not include the severe cuts proposed by the Trump administration.
Our fight for our funding is ongoing. You too can take action to help protect our future.
Protecting international scholars
Since the detentions of Mahmoud Khalil and Romesya Ozturk, the visa revocations of thousands of international students, and the attacks on Harvard and Columbia the Trump administration has created an environment of fear. 54% of our bargaining unit is international – this issue is felt deeply in our community. Our contract provides unprecedented support for international students, including support for visa fees and related expenses. In April, international scholars organized to present a list of demands to the administration, including reinstatement of SEVIS statuses. Caltech’s response has expanded the scope of our contract and confirmed that through collective action we can fight for our rights and dignity.
If you are having immigration-related difficulties, reach out to the UAW Legal Assistance Hotline at 888-416-2110.
Protecting freedom of speech
Under the California Labor employers cannot discriminate against their employees for political speech. In April of 2024 Caltech unilaterally changed their freedom of expression policies. The first article we won during bargaining ensured that workers could organize for their political causes.
As Trump targets universities, a key demand has been to curtail and restrict speech and academic freedom on campus. Unionization ensures that Caltech has to work within the bounds of our Collective Bargaining Agreement on issues like free speech.
Building political power
As part of our responsibilities we advocate for the rights and priorities of union members to our Congresspeople and other elected representatives.
Take action to advocate for your rights: click here to find out what you can do.
