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Press Release

NEARI Members at RWU to Rally Against Illegal Furlough Plan on Thursday

RWU Faculty and Professional Staff unions have been locked in a months-long labor dispute with management over a multitude of issues.
By: Stephanie Mandeville, NEARI Communications
Published: May 11, 2026

BRISTOL, R.I. — Faculty and Staff at Roger Williams University, represented by the National Education Association Rhode Island (NEARI), will rally in protest of the university’s mandatory furlough plan, which union members contend is illegal and unfair to employees.

Participants will gather at North Campus Residence Hall, where the RWU Board of Directors will be meeting. Union members will deliver a letter to the Board demanding the furlough plan be rescinded, followed by a brief speaking program

EVENT DETAILS
WHAT:  Rally at Roger Williams University in protest of illegal furlough

WHO:  NEARI faculty and staff at RWU

WHEN:  Thursday, May 14, 2026 at 11:30 a.m.

WHERE:  Gathering Location: North Campus Residence Hall

VISUALS/MEDIA NOTES
•    Faculty and Staff rallying on campus
•    Rally signs, union banners
•    Delivery of letter to the Board of Directors
•    Speaking program with NEARI leadership, RWU faculty and staff leaders
•    On-site interview availability including Clifford Murphy, RWU Faculty Union President
 

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A labor union and professional organization.

Our Association is a remarkable blend of union and professional organization, with a proud history of serving Rhode Island. Since its inception in 1845, our members have been at the center of every struggle to advance the finest of American dreams: the promise of a quality public education for every child. One in every 100 Rhode Islanders is a member - chances are, you know us already!
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