NIU faculty members finalized intent to unionize on Thursday with the Illinois Federation of Teachers; if certified, contract negotiations will potentially occur.

One of the first steps that a newly-certified group often takes is beginning contract negotiations, Kenzo Shibata, Illinois Federation of Teachers media director, said.

“[Faculty members] feel that going forward, they’re going to have a voice in decisions that are being made,” Shibata said. “[They will be able] to work on issues like the gender pay gap that exists within the faculty.”

The state federation is a teachers union that serves 103,000 professionals in Illinois, according to the organization’s website.

The Illinois Educational Labor Relations Board is in charge of certifying groups, and the process can take upwards of two weeks, Shibata said. Membership would apply to more than 600 tenured and tenure-track NIU faculty members.

Members of the federation receive benefits like loan forgiveness and legal and financial assistance, according to the organization’s website. Services are also offered, including assistance with contract negotiations and representation in upholding said contract.

To fund these benefits and services, NIU members will be required to pay dues. The cost of the dues varies from institution to institution and depends on the requested services. Payment intervals also vary. Dues can be collected from each paycheck, monthly or annually, Shibata said.

In order to begin the certification process, discussions must occur at the faculty level about potential union membership. When it is agreed that unionization is an appropriate choice, the majority of faculty members are required to sign a card that pledges their intent to join the union. These cards are then sent to the federation, and the group is put up for certification by the board. If denied, recommendations are given to the group that would assist in future certification. If approved, membership is enacted immediately. NIU faculty members began this process a few months ago, Shibata said.

“[Faculty members] really want to ensure that professors are staying at Northern and building lifelong careers,” Shibata said. “Having a voice to advocate for themselves and their students will promote that longevity.”

NIU President Doug Baker and Faculty Senate President Greg Long did not immediately respond to requests for comment.