Sample letter for religious/community support

Richard Atkinson, President
University of California
1111 Franklin Street
Oakland, CA 94607

Dear President Atkinson,

I write to you in my capacity as (title) of (organization). A member of my organization is a clerical employee at UC (Berkeley or Office of the President). I understand that the University is currently in its fifteenth month of contract negotiations with the clerical union, CUE.

I urge you to show your appreciation for the hard work done by the clerical staff at the university by offering a fair wage increase -- for these employees are among the lowest paid at UC. I am concerned that increases in the cost of health care benefits, parking, rent, and utilities affect them disproportionately. These employees deserve to earn a decent wage, one on which they can support themselves and their families. In addition, it is hard for me to understand that UC is not willing to guarantee safe working conditions for all employees, and I hope you will change your position on this matter.

I encourage you to have your negotiators bargain with the clerical union in good faith. UC loses face in the community when it commits illegal acts in negotiations with the duly-elected representatives of the workers.

I look forward to your response.

Sincerely,

(your name, title, organization)