Why Vote "YES" for Collective Bargaining

In the past few days I have received 3 pieces of communication from the Administrative Offices of FCCJ. Up until yesterday, March 28th, I was content to watch the events play out. According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary: COLLEGIAL: marked by power or authority vested equally in each of a number of colleagues. This term has been used repeatedly to describe the existing atmosphere at FCCJ.

It has been my experience, after attending numerous Faculty Exchange of Views (FEOV's) that we are "collegial" only when the faculty agrees with the administrative position. Open discussion of conflicting issues has been limited.

On the other hand, the Merriam-Webster dictionary defines ADVERSARY as one that contends with, opposes, or resists. Perhaps we need a forum for true discussion of opposing views. It has been my experience that opposition produces a deeper understanding of the issues and a resolution of conflicts that benefit both parties. I urge you to vote YES for collective bargaining.

Marlene J. Kovaly
Professor of Mathematics
Kent Campus