On a Wednesday that saw Texas state workers converge on the Capitol, the air was thick with demands for higher pay and the preservation of remote work. Union members, with chants of resistance, marched from Congress Avenue, arriving with a message that was both vocal and visual. Aja Dunn, who has been working for the state for just two years, stated, "I pretty much live paycheck to paycheck with no savings," during a demonstration on the steps of the Capitol, as reported by CBS Austin. Facing the financial strain, Dunn is among the many considering leaving for more lucrative opportunities elsewhere.
The Texas State Employees Union is advocating for a $10,000 salary increase to combat what they call the low wage epidemic pushing employees out the door. "The number one reason people leave state employment is because of low wages," Texas State Employees Union President Ilesa Daniels Ross highlighted in a statement obtained by CBS Austin. In addition to current employees, retirees have not seen a raise since 2002, which Ross says has cut their buying power by 40%.
Rally participants are holding the line not only for higher wages but also against Gov. Greg Abbott's return-to-office mandate, which they assert is a politically charged move likely to reduce state service efficiency. According to a KVUE report, this directive has been challenging for many, and the union stands firm in its desire to maintain the flexibility of remote work arrangements.
Union members made it clear they are fighting not just for increased pay but also to ensure academic freedom in public universities and to secure funding for public services. State employees and their allies are tirelessly working to engage directly with lawmakers, hoping to sway decisions before the legislative session comes to a close. As Ross poignantly put it, "If we don't fight for ourselves, nobody will," pointing out the urgency of their plight in a conversation with CBS Austin. Despite the headwinds, the union remains steadfast; their motto encapsulates their spirit: "If we fight, we win."
