VOTE for a better future for Valencia adjuncts
This year, Valencia adjunct professors finally have the chance to vote to form a union. When we win this election, it will be historic: the biggest victory for us adjuncts, and largest adjunct union victory anywhere in the country in 2021. A victory like this will send a clear message to the administration about our strength and our willingness to stick together to win better futures for ourselves and our students.
We’ve already seen the fruits of our labor. Since we began organizing for a union, we’ve won 5% pay raises (after years with no raises at all), $500 digital professor stipends, and the creation of Visiting Professor positions that provide—at least temporarily—more job security and pay. Imagine how much more we can win when we have a permanent voice to negotiate for our needs.
A better future is possible, but it can only happen if we VOTE in our union election and show Valencia we are ready to work together to improve our teaching conditions, fight for improved wages and benefits, and ensure our students get the education they deserve.
Why is this election important?
This election will decide whether or not our union will be officially recognized by Valencia College administration. Having our union recognized will give us a seat at the table with decision-makers to directly negotiate better wages and job security, healthcare benefits, and resources we need to provide our students with high-quality education.
I’m in! What’s next?
First, make sure you’ve committed to voting yes in the election, so we can follow up with all the information you’ll need.
You can expect to see an envelope containing your ballot from Florida’s Public Employees Relations Commission (PERC) in your mailbox, starting May 19th.
When you get your ballot, all you need to do is follow the instructions on the ballot to vote YES for our union, and mail the ballot back to the address on the envelope.
- Remember to clearly mark an X in the YES box. Do not write anything else on your ballot, or it will not be counted!
- Place your ballot in the inner envelope and seal it. Do not write anything on this inner envelope.
- Place your sealed inner envelope in the pre-addressed, pre-stamped outer envelope and seal it.
- Sign and print your name on the outer envelope where indicated. Do not write anything else on the outer envelope.
- Drop it in the mail ASAP—given funding cuts with the postal service—to ensure your vote is counted!
It only takes a few minutes to vote, and postage is included!
Sample ballot:
How to fill out your ballot:
I haven’t received my ballot. Can I get a new one?
Yes! If you do not receive your ballot by May 22, call PERC at (850) 488-8641 and press 3 for the Elections Division and request a new one. If you still have not received a ballot a week after contacting PERC, contact the Valencia Organizing Committee via email at ValenciaOrganizingCommittee@gmail.com and we will work with you to make sure that you get a ballot.
I have questions about the election and filling out my ballot. Who do I talk to?
Our team is here to provide updates and help with any questions you may have regarding our election. Please contact our Valencia Organizing Committee via email at ValenciaOrganizingCommittee@gmail.com or Teresa Greene teresa_greene@hotmail.com with any concerns or questions!
When is the last day I can vote?
To ensure your ballot is received and counted, get it in the mail ASAP given funding cuts at the postal service. No ballots will be counted if they’re received by PERC after 10am on June 16. If you’re worried your ballot might arrive late, contact the Valencia Organizing Committee via email at ValenciaOrganizingCommittee@gmail.com or reach out to Teresa Greene teresa_greene@hotmail.com.
I voted. Now what?
Like the Faculty Forward FL Facebook and share a story about why you voted with your colleagues! We’ll use that page to share important resources and updates—everything you need to make sure you and our colleagues’ voices are heard in this election and after! Click here.
