About GEO

Who we are:

The GEO is the labor union representing graduate assistants at UMass Boston. We are a student-run organization with democratically-elected leadership. We’re also a part of the UAW Local 1596. This structure lets us have the best of both worlds: we have access to the resources and expertise of the international UAW union, and we know what it’s like to be a grad assistant at UMass Boston because we’re all current or former UMB grad students ourselves.

What we do:

Bargaining: The GEO is responsible for negotiating all contracts between grad assistants and the University. This includes new collective bargaining agreements every three years, which set salaries, establish employees’ rights, and regulate working conditions. It also includes impact bargaining with the University when new conditions affecting grad students arise, like the Covid-19 pandemic.

Events: The GEO holds events for grad students throughout the semester, including social events, educational series, and events advocating for grad students’ rights. We work with the other campus unions and community groups to advocate for the rights of all campus workers and for positive social change and justice for all.

Funds: The GEO oversees two funds for grad students. The Scholarly Support Fund gives out grants of up to $500 for academic expenses, including research and conference travel costs. The Emergency Support fund provides grants of up to $500 for short-term emergency expenses, such as medical bills and car repairs.

Grievances: The GEO is responsible for defending the rights of all its members. If you think your rights have been violated, even for something that might seem minor, like late wages, contact us and we will meet with you to discuss your situation and how we can help. Depending on what’s going on and what your goals are, we can do anything from offering a sympathetic ear, to meeting with your supervisor on your behalf, to bringing a case to arbitration.

How to Join:

Become a dues-paying member by signing up here!

Your dues allow us to have resources like a paid Organizing Committee, legal support, and funds to put on events. By becoming a dues-paying member, you’ll be able to vote and run in elections for GEO leadership, apply for the Scholarly Support Fund and Emergency Support Fund, and vote whether to ratify new contracts.