Illinois State University Workers Rally for Fair Pay

AFSCME union members strike for living wages after nearly two years without a raise.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 2:59am

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A dynamic, fragmented painting depicting a group of workers marching with picket signs, conveying the energy and urgency of their fight for fair wages and recognition.Striking Illinois State University workers rally to demand fair pay and respect for their essential campus roles.Chicago Today

More than 300 AFSCME Local 1110 members who keep Illinois State University running - including custodians, groundskeepers, and food service workers - are striking for fair pay and a new contract after university administrators rejected a compromise proposal. The workers, who start at just $16.60 an hour, are drawing support from students, faculty, and elected officials as the strike continues to impact campus operations.

Why it matters

The ISU workers' fight is part of a broader struggle for dignity and respect for essential campus employees across the country. Their strike highlights the growing divide between university leadership and the workers who provide the critical day-to-day services that keep campuses functioning.

The details

After nearly two years without a raise, the AFSCME Local 1110 members are demanding fair pay and a new contract. The university has refused to provide retroactive pay for 2025 and has tried to strip out contract language that would ensure the workers receive the same wage increases as other university employees.

  • The strike by AFSCME Local 1110 members at Illinois State University began on April 8, 2026.
  • The workers held a march and rally outside the university president's office on April 17, 2026.

The players

AFSCME Local 1110

The union representing more than 300 Illinois State University workers, including custodians, groundskeepers, and food service staff.

Roberta Lynch

AFSCME Council 31 Executive Director and International Vice President.

Mike Newman

AFSCME Council 31 Associate Director and International Vice President.

Chuck Carver

An ISU building service worker and the president of AFSCME Local 1110.

Illinois State University

The public university where the AFSCME Local 1110 members work.

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What they’re saying

“By refusing to respect our work, ISU administration forced us out on strike. By refusing to negotiate, they're prolonging the pain for us, for students and faculty and the whole Redbird community.”

— Chuck Carver, AFSCME Local 1110 President

“They do everything for us and get the least in return. It's not fair.”

— Martin, ISU Student

“I really appreciate the workers who clean the floors and fix any issues. They deserve to be paid enough to support themselves for all the great work they do.”

— Kylie, ISU Student

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow the university to use outside replacement workers during the strike.

The takeaway

This strike highlights the growing divide between university leadership and the essential workers who keep campuses running, underscoring the need for fair pay and respect for all employees, regardless of their role.