The long and arduous Writers Strike, which spanned a staggering 146 days, has finally come to an end. A tentative agreement was reached on Sunday night, September 24, marking a significant turning point in the dispute between the The Writers Guild of America (WGA) and the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP).
This development was announced by the WGA Negotiating Committee in a letter sent to its members.
A Tentative but Encouraging Resolution
While the strike’s conclusion is a cause for celebration, the WGA has urged caution, emphasizing that writers should not return to work until the details of the agreement are fully formalized and organized. However, all picketing activities have been suspended, signaling a hopeful step forward.
The negotiations between the WGA and the AMPTP culminated in a tentative agreement that encompasses “all deal points,” as stated by the Guild. While the specifics of the agreement have not been disclosed publicly, it is expected to bring about substantial benefits and safeguards for writers across various sectors within the Guild.
Celebrating Member Solidarity and Leverage
The WGA Negotiating Committee conveyed its gratitude to the membership for their unwavering support and solidarity throughout the strike. The writers’ willingness to exercise their collective power, maintain unity, and endure the challenges of the past 146 days played a pivotal role in bringing the AMPTP back to the negotiation table.
The Negotiating Committee described the forthcoming contract as “exceptional,” emphasizing the meaningful gains and protections secured for writers. However, the final contract language is still being drafted and awaits approval.
The Path Forward
The next steps involve finalizing the Memorandum of Agreement with the AMPTP, after which the Negotiating Committee will vote on recommending the agreement to the WGAW Board and WGAE Council for approval. These leadership bodies will also determine whether to authorize a contract ratification vote by the membership.
Once authorization is granted, the Board and Council will consider lifting the restraining order and ending the strike at a specified date and time, pending ratification. This would allow writers to return to work while preserving the membership’s right to make the ultimate decision on contract approval.
The Guild has emphasized that no one should resume work until specifically authorized to do so, and the strike remains in effect until further notice. However, picketing activities organized by the WGA will be suspended, with the suggestion that members consider joining SAG-AFTRA picket lines.
In the days ahead, the WGA will provide a comprehensive summary of the agreement’s key points and the Memorandum of Agreement. Members will have the opportunity to review and assess the deal before participating in the ratification vote.
The conclusion of the Writers Strike is a significant milestone for the entertainment industry, bringing relief to writers and stakeholders alike. As the details of the agreement emerge, the Guild and its members are poised to embark on a new chapter, fortified by their unity and determination to secure a favorable outcome for writers.