Union members claim IU construction workers are exploited

Large signs stating “Indiana University, shame on you, don’t be next” could be seen at various street corners around campus Wednesday.

Holding those signs were members of the Indiana Kentucky Regional Council of Carpenters and Millwrights, an organization which alleges “an illegal systematic pattern of exploitation of Indiana’s Latino and non-Latino construction workers” is taking place on campus.

Members have been handing out bright orange press releases claiming that IKRCC investigators have found that Glenmark Construction, a company hired by IU to remodel Briscoe Residence Center, does not provide “area standard wages, benefits and working conditions for its employees.”

IKRCC stated that its findings could constitute as criminal violations of Indiana’s bidding statutes.

According to the release, IKRCC investigators have brought their findings to the Indiana Department of Labor. 

IU Spokesman Larry MacIntyre said he was not aware of the allegations.

­— Jake New