I’m inspired by the graduate workers across the University of Maine System and their call for unionization (“UMaine System grad students say they’re underpaid, look to unionize,” May 16). It’s personally meaningful to see these underpaid workers stand together and be another positive example of Maine’s surging pro-union labor movement.

In recent years, workers at the Portland Museum of Art, Starbucks in Biddeford and the nurses at Maine Medical Center made the smart, empowering choice to unionize. I’m so proud of these workers for speaking up about the value of their labor and taking a stand for the respect they absolutely deserve.

It’s my sincere request that the UMaine System voluntarily recognize their graduate workers union.

Aaron Bergeron
Portland