Writers Vote to End Strike

by Mike Hall, Feb 13, 2008

Television and movie writers are returning to work following a vote yesterday to end the strike. After more than three months on the picket lines, the writers won their demands for a fair share of the revenue when their work is distributed through new media such as the Internet and DVDs. 

The vote to end the strike garnered 92 percent support from the writers, who agreed to end the strike prior to a ratification vote later this month on the proposed contract with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP). The writers are members of the Writers Guild of America, East (WGAE) and Writers Guild of America, West (WGAW). 

In a letter to writers posted on both unions’ websites, WGAE President Michael Winship and WGAW President Patric Verrone say: 

The decision to begin this strike was not taken lightly and was only made after no other reasonable alternative was possible. With the establishment of the WGA jurisdiction over new media and residual formulas based on distributor’s gross revenue (among other gains) we are confident that the results are a significant achievement not only for ourselves but the entire creative community, now and in the future.

Winship says the solidarity between the two unions was pivotal in winning the gains.

The commitment and solidarity of our members made it happen and have been an inspiration not only to us but the entire organized labor movement. We will build on that energy and unity to make our two unions stronger than ever.

Verrone says that with the growing distribution of television and movies though new media, the new agreement means writers now have 

a foothold in the digital age. Rather than being shut out of the future of content creation and delivery, writers will lead the way as TV migrates to the Internet and platforms for new media are developed.

The strike began Nov. 5 and producers walked out of negotiations in December. Informal talks resumed in late January and the tentative agreement was announced this past weekend. The ratification vote will be conducted by mail and at membership meetings Feb. 25.

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