Writers Guild of America West Staff wins Union Recognition
The staff of the Writers Guild of America West has won voluntary recognition for his new negotiation unit, after more than 81% signed cards for support.
The 110 employees of the WGA West will be represented in negotiation by the Pacific Northwest Staff Union. The leadership of the WGA West chose to recognize the trade union via a map control process instead of forcing a vote.
“We have an agreement about our first question, and we are delighted to take this important step towards a voice in improving our workplace and organizing without fear of retribution,” said Doug Macisaac, a WGA operation coordinator, in a written statement. “We are happy that we can argue for ourselves and look forward to negotiating our first collective employment contract.”
The trade union will cover employees in the guild, including in departments that will handle residues, contracts, communication, research and the WGA theater.
The Pacific Northwest Staff Union represents employees of the LA County Federation of Labor and of various chapters of the Employees International Union Service, including Union staff. In 2022, the trade union led a 12-day strike against SEIU Local 2015, based in Los Angeles and represents long-term care workers.
Genevieve Gonsal, a WGA contract coordinator, said in the statement that she will mark the guild on May 1 for 25 years, “and what a journey it has been!”
“I am honored to be part of the historical formation of the WGSU and enthusiastic about all the possibilities that are for us,” she said. “This is solidarity, progress and the next chapter!”
Waga East employees are already represented, just like employees of SAG-AFTRA.
