Union service workers at the University of Minnesota announced Thursday their intent to strike Aug. 20 if their demands for better wages and workplace conditions are not met.

Teamsters Local 320 represents over 1,400 people whose jobs include cleaning buildings, preparing food, caring for research animals and maintaining HVAC systems, among other roles across the university’s five campuses.

The union has been without a contract since June 30, though negotiations began in March.

Union leaders are holding ground on wage increases that keep up with inflation, higher shift differentials for evening workers, more leave protections and stronger anti-harassment language in the union contract.

“The message from our side of the table has been consistent. We want a good contract,” said Jackson K

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