With contract talks stalled, members of the ECC Faculty Association gathered in the Jobe Lounge today, making protest signs and urging administrators to reach a fair agreement as negotiations continue. 

Since September of last year, faculty members have been in negotiations with ECC’s administration. After reaching almost 20 meetings with the administration, they are still working without a contract. 

Faculty members worked side by side, writing messages that emphasized fair pay. The event was open to students and staff passing through the lounge, many of whom stopped to ask questions about the negotiations and what they were advocating for. 

“We’re here in hopes to get all of this resolved by tomorrow”, stated Professor II of Welding, David Reich. “We’ve been working without a contract since December 31, 2025 and this may result in a strike if nothing is agreed upon.”

According to ECCFA representatives, negotiations have stood in the way over key issues, prompting the group to take more public action for awareness. While the sign-making event was peaceful, it served both as a visible show of solidarity and a call for progress. 

“Mediation starts tomorrow. There will be a federal mediator that serves as a neutral party in the conflict. We hope it gets quickly resolved, but it could last weeks to even months. None of us wants a strike, but we do have approval to call for one.” said Unit Adjunct II Librarian, Lauren Sullivan. 

ECCFA leaders hope that these demonstrations will encourage dialogue within the administration. 

For now, faculty plan to continue organizing and engaging the campus community while awaiting further negotiation sessions.