PCC strike enters 2nd week, classes remain disrupted

Catch up quick: More than 2,000 unionized faculty and staff are still on strike as of Tuesday after entering into contract negotiations nearly a year ago.

• Mediation sessions on Sunday and Monday between PCC administration and the two unions were unsuccessful as the parties continued to be millions of dollars apart on pay proposals — especially cost of living increases — as well as ratification bonuses and broader equity concerns.
• Mediation will continue Wednesday.

What they're saying: Representatives for the unions previously argued PCC's proposals don't keep up with inflation and would amount to pay cuts for some workers. Some employees said they struggle to afford to live in Portland and have to juggle multiple jobs.

• Meanwhile, PCC said its raises are competitive when factoring in experience-based "step" increases and ongoing budget constraints.

Between the lines: Enrollment at PCC has increased since a pandemic slump.

Zoom out: Several students told the Oregonian that the strike has largely impacted their day-to-day lives, creating uncertainty around grades, financial aid and campus jobs — though many say they still support their instructors and blame the administration.

The bottom line: It's unclear how long classes will remain remote and campuses will remain closed as negotiations continue.