Posted by Oleh Sydor on February 27, 19101 at 09:24:48:
In Reply to: no respect posted by anonymouse adjunct on February 21, 19101 at 12:37:23:
Though I personally haven't experienced this kind of incident, I can see how the lowly status of part-timers, dictated by the college, could encourage this sort of sniping. Demeaning treatment of certain workers and deplorable working conditions are probably related. A big part of what we are struggling for, is acknowledgment of the contribution that adjuncts make to the college, and recognition of part-timers as a valuable component of the school.
We have NO say in any aspect of school policy, have virtually NO representation in any college forum ( 1 seat out of 26 in PIEC can hardly be called representation ), and are ignored when we try to bring attention to important issues. It is beyond understanding that the largest group of college employees, is shut out of any significant decision-making.
Even corporations, those cold-hearted bastions of capitalism, are beginning to see the light - they are starting to offer their part-time workers better pay, benefits, and recognition. It's doubtful that this is done out of altruism. Rather, it makes good business sense:
* Demoralized, frustrated workers that are treated unfairly simply do not fulfill their potential.
* Contented workers that are treated fairly and given a voice are more productive.
It is amazing that it took so long for corporations to figure this out, and even more astounding that colleges still don't get it.
Regarding your predicament - If I were in your position, I would definitely let this person know how you felt. Give them the benefit of the doubt, though - maybe it wasn't intentional. Weigh the consequences and do what you must, just don't wait too long if you decide to speak. Confront them while their memory is still fresh.
However, until the treatment of adjuncts changes, none of us will get any respect.