“We are deeply concerned by recent actions taken by the administration to suspend admissions to a number of Ph.D. programs in the humanities and social sciences. While the university has yet to offer a clear explanation for this drastic decision, we reject the suggestion that increased labor costs associated with our graduate workers’ union contract are a contributing factor to this move.
The suspension of admissions to programs such as Philosophy, History, and English—fields where graduate workers play an essential role in teaching and research at the university—raises serious questions about BU’s long-term commitment to these academic disciplines. It is concerning that the university appears willing to reduce opportunities for students in these fields and that there have been suggestions that this decision is tied to the contractual gains of graduate workers.
If BU truly intends to “re-envision” these programs, it must ensure that any changes are done with the interests of students and workers at the forefront. We remain committed to upholding our contract, ensuring fair treatment for graduate workers, and supporting the academic integrity and accessibility of BU’s programs for all students, current and future.”
-Statement from SEIU 509
