EAST LANSING — Michigan Education Association President Paula Herbart issued the following statement Wednesday in response to the Eastern Michigan University Chapter of the American Association of University Professors (EMU-AAUP) strike action:

“At a time when Michigan families and students are struggling with a crippling educator shortage, it’s unconscionable that EMU administrators would want to jack up health care costs and reduce compensation for university employees. The Michigan Education Association stands in solidarity with the striking EMU-AAUP members, as well as workers everywhere who are fighting for better compensation, working conditions and professional respect.”