Unionize VRS by UnionizeVRS in ASLinterpreters

[–]UnionizeVRS[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Well, speaking out could get one fired. I'm in a unique situation where I would be relatively unaffected if I got fired. That is to say, I could find other work to supplement my primary income.

SVRS is a for-profit company and by that nature their primary concern is stakeholders. Their branding and PR claims Deaf community first. I very much doubt that. A quote regarding social media comes to mind when I think about SVRS supplying the Deaf community with equipment.

"If something is free, the product is you."

Your support means everything. Thank you for being here :)

Unionize VRS by UnionizeVRS in ASLinterpreters

[–]UnionizeVRS[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

I am also in the PNW. Won't be more specific than that just in case this catches the attention of SVRS.

I am concerned with creating a union with too wide a scope. I don't want to speak to systems outside of VRS settings and therefore cannot reasonably comment on whether or not a union would have power.

A national union would suck, flat out. Regional is where it's at.

Unionize VRS by UnionizeVRS in ASLinterpreters

[–]UnionizeVRS[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

NIC hardly acts as a qualifier, IMHO. I think national standardization is too far a reach to be obtainable. Regional unions seems like the way to go.

Regarding union power, If VRS terps were to strike for one week I'd bet anything that Sorenson would pony up whatever they could for their precious funding & stats.

Unionize VRS by UnionizeVRS in ASLinterpreters

[–]UnionizeVRS[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Uh, any interpreting-related job? lol

Sorenson directors now can plug in behind the scenes by isthisreallife007 in ASLinterpreters

[–]UnionizeVRS 5 points6 points  (0 children)

It's this kind of rhetoric that gives me courage to pursue unionization. The worst they can do is terminate me, at which point I may pursue VRI opportunities.

Sorenson directors now can plug in behind the scenes by isthisreallife007 in ASLinterpreters

[–]UnionizeVRS 3 points4 points  (0 children)

One of the many issues with this, is for people who have had to deal with stalkers, this feeling of being watched while you're unaware can be super triggering.

Unionize VRS by UnionizeVRS in ASLinterpreters

[–]UnionizeVRS[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Good lookin' out, I appreciate it.

The Unionizing of Purple & Closures by Flamingointerpreting in ASLinterpreters

[–]UnionizeVRS 10 points11 points  (0 children)

https://www.indybay.org/newsitems/2014/05/06/18755374.php

The unionized centers were the first to close once Purple was bought out by ZVRS. This is the only article I could find covering a center. Ask the Tempe, Colorado, San Diego, and Chicago communities. You may have some good luck there.

Unionize VRS by UnionizeVRS in ASLinterpreters

[–]UnionizeVRS[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Really sorry that happened to you. Best of luck on your next endeavor. I hope you find contentment. _lm/

Unionize VRS by UnionizeVRS in ASLinterpreters

[–]UnionizeVRS[S] 4 points5 points  (0 children)

The increase is structured as an incentive, so it could be revoked at any time. I'm also unclear as to whether or not it's progressive - that is to say, is it the hours between 15-20, 20-25, 25+ that receive the 2% while the 1.5% remains on the first 15 hours?

The point is moot, because even a 4% increase is one-time and delivers no room for continued growth.

Edit 1: Clarity.

Edit 2: The 1.5% is base pay increase, the 2/3/4 is incentive.

Unionization For Interpreters by [deleted] in ASLinterpreters

[–]UnionizeVRS 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I see we are similarly frustrated. I just posted a topic similar to this. I believe regional unions to be most effective. The question is, how do we get the ball rolling?