WGA Staff Strike Weeks Before AMPTP Negotiations
The Writers Guild of America West (WGA West) staff initiated a strike on Tuesday, citing alleged unfair labor practices by union leadership. Approximately 100 out of 150 staff members are involved in this strike, coordinated by the Pacific Northwest Staff Union (PNWSU). This action follows a vote last month that authorized the strike due to stalled negotiations.
Allegations Against Union Leadership
The Writers Guild Staff Union (WGSU) claims that WGA West management has engaged in various unfair labor practices, including surveillance of workers related to union activities and the dismissal of union advocates. According to the WGSU, management has shown no genuine intent to negotiate on the workers’ central issues.
Missy Brown, co-chair of the WGSU bargaining committee, expressed frustration over the lack of meaningful engagement from management, stating there was no movement during their last negotiating session.
Impact on Upcoming Negotiations
This strike coincides with an imminent sit-down the WGA is scheduled to have with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) regarding a new contract for Hollywood writers. Despite the staff’s action, the union leadership believes the negotiations with AMPTP will continue as planned.
- Strike initiated by WGA West staff on Tuesday.
- Approximately 100 staff members participating.
- Allegations include management’s surveillance and employee terminations.
- Key upcoming negotiations with AMPTP scheduled shortly.
Current Activities and Future Plans
The WGA West headquarters has closed to both the public and its members temporarily. In light of the strike, screenings at the Writers Guild Theater are also canceled. The guild had planned multiple meetings to brief members on negotiation strategies, but those have been scrapped as well. Uncertainty looms over the annual WGA awards set for March 8, with no clarifications issued regarding its potential impact.
Responses from Union Management
WGA West claims that the accusations of bad faith negotiations are unfounded and asserts that comprehensive proposals have been offered during 19 negotiation sessions since September. The union stated that management will continue essential functions, such as processing dues and residual payments. However, staff members express concern over the management’s reliance on middle personnel to handle these tasks effectively.
Commitment Among Staff Members
The striking staff members remain united in their efforts. They acknowledge the uncertainty of the strike’s duration but emphasize the importance of solidarity during this challenging period. Andrew Aroche, a coordinator in the guild’s inclusion and equity department, noted that the collective effort provides comfort amidst the unknowns.
Solidarity from WGA East
The staff of WGA East, based in New York and represented by a different union, issued a supportive statement for the WGA West staff’s strike. They argue that all workers deserve fair pay and respect, urging WGA West management to engage in constructive bargaining.
The WGSU staff continues to advocate for essential changes, including protections related to employment and a competitive wage scale, as notable challenges remain in the discussions with their leadership.
