NORTHERN CALIFORNIA — The Faculty Association of Yuba Community College District, or FAYCCD, is set to hold a public protest on Thursday, Oct. 10, demanding a fair contract now from the Yuba Community College District.

At 4 p.m. Thursday, FAYCCD and its supporters will meet in the Yuba College cafeteria (Building 300) before attending the board of trustees meeting at 5 p.m. in the 300 Building Conference Room.

“After nearly three years of negotiations and wasteful litigation by the District, FAYCCD members demand a new contract that addresses key issues such as seniority rights and a salary enhancement during this time of historic inflation,” the union said in its announcement about the event.

FAYCCD faculty are reported to be among the lowest-paid community college educators in the state, while their healthcare costs have nearly doubled in just the last few years.

“FAYCCD faculty class sizes have increased in the name of ‘efficiency.’ All the while, the district has wasted an egregious amount of money on failed litigation to strip FAYCCD faculty of long-held rights and delay contract negotiations,” the union said.

The union said the faculty are united in their call for a contract that recognizes their invaluable contributions to student success and the overall quality of education in the district.

“Our educators deserve to be treated with respect and fairness. We’ve given our time, energy, and dedication to our students, and it’s time for the district to prioritize its faculty,” said Dr. Travis Smith, president of FAYCCD. “We’re fighting for a contract that reflects our commitment to high-quality education, equity, and the well-being of our faculty.”

The protest is open to the public, and FAYCCD encourages students, community members and allies to join in solidarity.

“We are not only fighting for ourselves, but for the students and the future of high-quality education in this district,” said Professor Kevin Ferns, FAYCCD lead negotiator.