"In a large and complex institution where contracting is decentralized (and where arrangements may change from year to year), it is important to assess this situation periodically," Rudenstine wrote in a press release.
One of the goals of the task force will be to analyze the growth of what Rudenstine termed the "contingent work force."
This term refers to "casual workers," who work less than three months or less than 17.5 hours week, and subcontracted workers.
Rudenstine seemed to acknowledge the vocal activism of the campaign, but it appears that even stronger measures may be to come if the campaign continues to see the University as dragging its feet on this issue.
"Our deadline was May 1. The provost said it was impossible to meet that deadline. We want to make them think about their intransigence," Vaeth said.
While Vaeth promised continued action, he said that a protest planned for Commencement would be a great opportunity to reach families of students, alumni and the media.
"It's fair to say something will happen on [Commencement] day, " he said.
"We feel like we've gotten a lot of support and it's growing. Just ask anybody on this campus if they're heard about the campaign and they'll say yes," Vaeth said.
Task Force Named
"They're trying to get a group of people who don't have a clear alignment on this issue and people with economic knowledge," said Associate Dean of Harvard Law School Frank E. A. Sander, a task force member.
The task force's first meeting will not be until Thursday, April 15.