Greetings,

This week members of the TA/GA Steering Committee will join activists from Canada and the United States in Toronto, Ontario at the annual conference of the Coalition of Graduate Employee Unions (CGEU). We'll be learning from our national and international colleagues about new issues facing graduate employees and new ideas for organizing a stronger union--but more than that, we'll also arrive as recognized leaders on the international scene. Two of our experienced members are leading workshops or participating on panels attended by activists from all across North America. And do you know what happens when we tell them about our many contract victories at Rutgers? Work and family leave, 8% yearly raises, student fee waivers... They can hardly believe it. Jaws drop. Seriously!

We're doing something special here. And there's never been a better time to get involved.

The brilliant negotiators and talented organizers I've met in the union... well, all of us started out just like you. We didn't know what we were capable of, or how much fun it would be, until we finally dove in and did it. But then, speaking for myself, I was more reluctant than most: I got my toes wet for a good long time before I finally headed for the deep end. And I'll invite you to do the same. Whatever your interests, whatever your schedule and the demands on your time, there's a place for you in the union.

It's easy. Just come out this week to one of our events:

Summer Organizing: Tag along with an experienced activist to see what it's like. Meet this Wednesday (TODAY) @ 3pm in front of Busch Campus Center. Stay for as little or as long as you like.
TA/GA Steering Committee: We'll be planning a summer BBQ, preparing for Fall Orientations, and discussing our social calendar for the year. All are welcome! We meet this Wednesday (TODAY) @ 6pm in the Graduate Student Lounge on College Ave.
Summer Social Hour: Join us for live music tonight at the 360 Bar & Grill at 120 Albany Street in New Brunswick. As always, free drinks for organizers and anyone supporting us with a union shirt--shirts available upon request!

Address all questions to me at taga@gsa.rutgers.edu.

In unity,
Elric Kline
Chair, TA/GA Steering Committee