Last updated: August 28, 2026
WFSE statewide labor action planned for August 31
The Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE) is promoting a statewide “Walkout with Washington for Public Services” on Monday, August 31, 2026 as part of its campaign related to 2027–29 contract negotiations. SEIU 925 has called on its members to participate, and we anticipate that other unions may do the same.
WFSE describes the event as a coordinated action in which participating employees use regularly scheduled break, lunch or vacation time. The event will take place at several UW locations:
- UW Seattle: 11 a.m., Red Square
- UW Medical Center – Montlake: 11 a.m., meeting at the “W” across from the Triangle Garage at Pacific Street and Montlake Boulevard
- Harborview Medical Center: 11 a.m., meeting at 9th Avenue and Jefferson Street
- UW Bothell: noon, meeting on the Bothell Promenade by the “W”
- UW Tacoma: noon, meeting at the bottom of the staircase by the granite UW sign along Pacific Avenue
Guidance for employees and managers
Employees may participate in labor actions during non-work time, including scheduled meal and break periods, or while on approved time off, provided participation does not disrupt University operations or block access to University facilities.
Employees who want time off to participate should follow their department’s normal time-off request process. Managers should review requests in the same manner as other personal absence requests and consider operational and departmental needs. A request may be denied if the absence would impair operations.
When approved, employees may use applicable vacation time off, compensatory time, discretionary time off or holiday credit consistent with University policy and applicable collective bargaining agreements.
Managers should not treat employees differently because they choose to participate or not participate in union activity.
For additional guidance, see Taking time off for an event or activity during the work day. Contact Labor Relations or your HR consultant with questions.