WGA West Staff Strikes Before Writers Union’s AMPTP Negotiations
The Writers Guild of America West (WGAW) staff has initiated a strike in Los Angeles. This action comes just weeks before the guild is set to engage in negotiations with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP). The Writers Guild Staff Union (WGSU) announced this work stoppage on Tuesday and informed that members will picket outside the WGA West offices.
Background of the Writers Guild Staff Union Strike
The WGSU formed last spring and began negotiating their first contract with management in September. However, they have accused management of bad faith bargaining. The union claims management has “surveiled workers for union activity, terminated union supporters, and engaged in bad faith surface bargaining.” These actions suggest that management has no genuine intention of reaching an agreement on key issues.
The WGSU filed a charge with the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), claiming that an organizing committee member was unlawfully terminated. In response, a WGAW spokesperson stated that the guild respects the staff union’s right to strike and asserts their commitment to engaging in good faith negotiations.
Union’s Position and Management’s Response
Throughout 19 negotiating sessions, WGAW claims to have offered comprehensive proposals addressing union protections and improvements in compensation and working conditions. However, the WGSU’s allegations of unfair labor practices are deemed “without merit” by the guild.
The WGAW also shared a comparison of proposals and counterproposals from both parties in response to the strike authorization. The guild has closed its headquarters to members and the public until further notice, leading to the cancellation of all upcoming events, including discussions on the guild’s bargaining priorities.
Upcoming Negotiations with AMPTP
The strike timing poses challenges as the WGA is preparing to negotiate a new TV/Theatrical contract with major Hollywood studios. This negotiation is especially crucial, with the current contract set to expire on May 1. The WGAW staff union comprises various roles, including:
- Residuals & Dues Processors
- IT & Data Management Workers
- Organizers
- Communications Specialists
- Legal Personnel
- Researchers
- Writers Guild Theater Employees
- Contract Enforcement Staff
As the negotiations draw near, the WGSU continues to advocate for their rights, underscoring the importance of labor relations in the entertainment industry.
