Hundreds of Illinois State University Workers Strike

Grounds, maintenance, and dining staff walk off the job, impacting campus operations.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 1:08am

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A high-end studio photograph featuring a collection of polished tools and equipment used for campus maintenance, grounds keeping, and food service, arranged elegantly on a clean, monochromatic background to represent the vital behind-the-scenes work of the striking employees.The striking workers at Illinois State University are responsible for the unseen labor that keeps the campus running smoothly.Normal Today

More than 300 union employees at Illinois State University, represented by AFSCME Local 1110, went on strike on Wednesday. The striking workers are responsible for maintaining the campus buildings, grounds, and dining services. University officials say they presented a counterproposal this week, but the union rejected it.

Why it matters

The strike by these essential workers is expected to have a significant impact on campus operations and student life at Illinois State University. The dispute centers around wages, with the union arguing that many employees are among the lowest paid at the university.

The details

The striking workers include staff responsible for buildings, campus grounds, and dining services. Union leaders say many employees are among the lowest paid at ISU and have gone nearly two years without a raise. According to the university, the current average pay rate among Local 1110 workers is $21.77 per hour, with individual rates ranging from around $16.60 to $28.80 per hour.

  • The strike began on Wednesday, April 9, 2026.

The players

AFSCME Local 1110

The union representing the striking Illinois State University employees, including grounds, maintenance, and dining staff.

Illinois State University

The public university located in Normal, Illinois, where the strike is taking place.

Lennon Stoner

A sophomore student senator at Illinois State University who says the striking workers are the "backbone" of the university.

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What’s next

There are currently no additional mediation sessions scheduled between the university and the union.

The takeaway

This strike highlights the importance of fair wages and working conditions for the essential staff who maintain and support university operations. The dispute could have significant impacts on the Illinois State University community until a resolution is reached.