The Boston Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) stand with the Cambridge Public Library Staff Association (CPLSA) in their fight for a safe workplace, a living wage, and a thriving library system for all of Cambridge.
Libraries are one of the last public services that haven’t been gutted or privatized in our cities. They provide a safe, public space where the whole community–young people, working-class families, even the unhoused and vulnerable–can gather without having to spend a dime.
Library workers are the ones who make the system run. Without them, not only could you never check out a book, there would be no youth services, no community education, no read-alouds for our little ones, and one less public space where we can all go to work, study, and relax.
The CPLSA is fighting for very reasonable demands. All workers deserve enough sick time to keep healthy, protections against bullying and harassment from managers, and a wage that allows them to live in the community they serve. It’s shameful that a city as wealthy as Cambridge is refusing to even discuss these demands with their workers.
The CPLSA just had their last negotiation session with the city, and will probably have to enter arbitration. Boston DSA will do whatever we can to help library workers keep up the pressure and win the contract they deserve.
Solidarity with the CPLSA! You’re fighting for the community, and the community has your backs!