The WKV urges members to ignore “misleading” rumors and strike predictions

The WGA is urging members to ignore rumors of a possible strike as they prepare for upcoming contract negotiations with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers.

The Guild issued a similar warning three years ago. And still, a set of FAQs on the WGA East and WGA West websites is more of a general overview of the negotiation process than saber talk. The union’s current film and television contract expires on May 1.

“Misleading and provocative information has already appeared in the press and on social media,” says the FAQ. “Months before writers collectively set their negotiating agenda, there were predictions of industry strikes, and you may have heard rumors from executives, managers, agents and other writers. These stories — so ubiquitous that they’ve become standard industry wisdom — seek to portray WGA leadership as determined no matter how negotiations go. By presenting the WKV as unreasonable, authors’ proposals can also be dismissed as unreasonable.

“Take rumors and insider comments with caution. Consider the source and motivation of comments on WGA goals, strategies, tactics and priorities. Often these comments never come at all! Even well-meaning colleagues can be misinformed about the contract negotiation process. The only real authority on the status of MBA (Minimum Basic Agreement) negotiations is the WGA, represented by designated member leaders, their captains and staff.

“WGA contract negotiations are conducted through a democratic process, backed by in-depth industry analysis and experienced campaign strategists. Members decide which issues to bring to the table and whether a strike should be allowed. Expect debate among your peers—a fundamental aspect of any democracy—but don’t assume it’s a sign of dissent. Recent experience has shown that WGA members agree on key issues and will take action when the mission is clear. When authors last voted to authorize a strike in 2017, 96.3% voted in favor, giving negotiators the leverage to secure health plan increases and other gains. Throughout the history of the WGA, writers have proven that through collective action they can achieve new industry standards.”

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After reviewing the steps taken before and during the negotiation process, the FAQ asks, “What happens when writers strike?”

“WGA leadership may not declare a strike until members have approved it and the current contract has expired,” the FAQ states. “If a strike is declared, members are prohibited from providing covered typing services to companies that do not have an agreement with the WKV. To demonstrate unity and determination, authors participate in other collective actions that push the AMPTP to improve its offerings. Negotiations can continue during a strike.

“By striking and holding back, writers are using their influence to secure significant economic benefits for all union members. A strike can also pose a financial challenge for individual writers. Members can qualify for help through a WGAE fund, which provides loans in the event of a strike. More detailed information will be available in the event of a strike.”

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The WKV has already appointed the members of its negotiating committee who, with the help of the staff, will develop a so-called “Pattern of Demands” which are the general negotiating objectives of the guild. Once approved by the WGA West Council and WGA East Council, the sample request will be sent to members for voting. The negotiating committee will then decide on a set of specific negotiating proposals and negotiating priorities, and the guild will hold a series of member meetings to get feedback on the negotiating agenda.

The last WGA strike was in 2007-2008 – a strike that lasted 100 days.