On behalf of the 170,000 members, the British Columbia Federation of Students, I am writing this letter to express our full support for the Teaching Support Staff Union (TSSU) during their ongoing strike at Simon Fraser University (SFU). As an organization committed to promoting the fair treatment and well-being of all individuals, we stand in solidarity with the members of TSSU in their pursuit of better working conditions and an improved academic environment where all members, faculty, and students can flourish in a safe, hospitable, and equitable campus.  

The collective bargaining agreement between the university and the TSSU is crucial in ensuring a harmonious and productive academic environment where respect is paramount. Teaching support staff play a vital role in shaping the future leaders of our society and institutions, and it is essential that their concerns and needs are taken seriously by the administration. The union's decision to strike reflects their deep commitment to fostering a high-quality educational experience for students, as well as their own professional growth and job satisfaction that they deserve. 

We firmly believe that the success of any educational institution is directly linked to the well-being and satisfaction of its faculty, staff, and students – members at the TSSU are fulfilling many of these roles at once to the benefit of SFU. By actively participating in research, mentoring students, and delivering quality education, TSSU members contribute significantly to the overall reputation and success of SFU. It is, therefore, imperative that their working conditions are fair, inclusive, and supportive. 

We recognize the challenges faced by the university administration in balancing various demands and priorities. However, we urge you to engage in constructive dialogue with the TSSU to reach a mutually beneficial agreement. Addressing their concerns will not only improve the teacher support staff’s morale and retention but will also enhance the institution's reputation and attract exceptional leaders, educators and researchers in the future. 

During this strike, we kindly request that the administration ensures the safety and well-being of all individuals on campus, including both striking TSSU members and students. We encourage the administration to maintain open lines of communication and create a supportive environment that allows for productive discussions and negotiations. 

Please be assured that the British Columbia Federation of Students will actively monitor the developments of this strike and lend its voice to the cause. We are committed to fostering an educational environment that upholds the principles of fairness, inclusivity, and respect for all stakeholders. 

We sincerely hope that through meaningful dialogue and a shared commitment to finding common ground, a resolution can be reached swiftly and amicably. 

Thank you for your attention to this matter. We stand in solidarity with the TSSU and remain hopeful for a positive outcome.