Fighting for justice in the neoliberal university: The promise of reflexive and flexible solidarity

Abstract

In the neoliberal university, faculty are encouraged to build strong connections in virtually every way except one: as workers. In this paper, we will discuss our experiences as leaders of the XXX chapter of the American Association of University Professors, with a focus on our campaign to build across-campus labor coalition connecting faculty, students, staff, and contract workers in the struggle for economic and social justice. We will begin by examining the constellation of structural forces and professional hierarchies that amplify labor exploitation on campus, subvert shared governance and academic freedom, and cultivate a campus culture of disconnection, competition, and alienation. Finally, our conclusion will argue that addressing these long-standing and emergent threats to public higher education will require a project of flexible and reflexive solidarity. In this project, those who enjoy the most protections and resources will be called upon to leverage their power and join in solidarity with those marginalized by unequal systems to revitalize the university’s public mission to serve the common good.