COLLEGE PARK — More than 100 members of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) rallied at the University of Maryland, Baltimore, on Friday. The rally occurred 30 minutes before a scheduled meeting of the University System of Maryland Board of Regents. The board oversees academic and financial operations for 12 institutions and three regional higher education centers.

University officials at the College Park campus announced layoffs of approximately 84 state-funded employees on June 4. Approximately 23 employees were laid off at Bowie State University to address budget constraints. At least one layoff notice was issued at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County.

Emily Leak, who worked as an integrated care specialist at the University of Maryland, College Park, stated her concern. "I’m not sure why we’re being laid off when there’s other options that they could have explored, and we’re really angry about it," Leak said.

"I would like for UMD to reinstate everyone who was laid off and make this right," she said.

AFSCME Council 3 President Patrick Moran was also present at the rally. "They have the money. It's about choices. It's about priorities," Moran said. He questioned the priorities of the university system, stating, "Would you cut the basketball coaches or the football coaches pay after you have a contract? So, why are you taking it out on the backs of working people?"

University System of Maryland spokesperson Michael Sandler addressed the financial situation. "First, our base funding from the state is 10% lower because of cuts from the previous two budget cycles," Sandler said. He added, "Furthermore, when you factor the impact of inflation and changes in federal policies that have affected research funding, we are seeing reduced funding at our institutions while also experiencing higher costs."

"No additional funds were provided for merit pay for any employees, including those covered under the AFSCME contract," Sandler said. The fiscal 2027 budget provided a 1.5% cost-of-living increase for all 40,000 system employees. Merit pay for employees is distributed only when explicitly funded by the state.