Condé Nast has laid off six members of the NewsGuild of New York, most of whom are women or transgender people from marginalized communities. The layoffs also coincide with the closure of Teen Vogue, a publication known for its political and youth-focused reporting. According to the union, these actions continue a pattern at Condé Nast that disproportionately affects employees from underrepresented backgrounds.
Journalists at Condé Nast sought answers from Stan Duncan, head of human resources, regarding the recent decisions. Duncan declined to engage with more than a dozen journalists who approached him and instead instructed them to return to their workplace before retreating to a locked office.
Subsequently, four union leaders representing Bon Appetit, Wired, The New Yorker, and Condé Nast Entertainment were dismissed. Susan DeCarava, president of The NewsGuild of New York, responded: “Management’s attempt at union-busting, using intimidation and grossly illegal tactics to try to suppress protected union activity, will not stand. The NewsGuild of New York has zero tolerance for bad bosses who harass, target and disrespect our fellow Guild members. We represent nearly 6,000 media workers across the tri-state area and we stand firmly in solidarity, ready to fight for the rights of our members illegally fired from their jobs at Conde.”
The NewsGuild has called for immediate reinstatement of these journalists and stated that members across North America are prepared to support their colleagues in defending press independence.
Elsewhere in labor news related to The NewsGuild-CWA:
– Journalists at Science News staged a one-day strike after more than 560 days without a contract agreement. During the walkout, workers urged management at Society for Science to resume negotiations toward an agreement that reflects staff dedication. As a result of the strike action, distribution of the November issue was delayed.
– Staff at Business Insider responded publicly when the company introduced an AI-generated byline called “Business Insider AI.” The union’s AI subcommittee began discussions within the newsroom about this development.
– Journalists at the New York Daily News reached a tentative first contract with Alden Global Capital after three years without an agreement. The deal sets new minimum salaries: $60,000 upon ratification and $75,000 for senior roles.
Michael Sheridan, unit chair of the Daily News Union said: “I could not be prouder of everyone in the Daily News Union who made this possible… Winning the first contract for the Daily News’ workers in more than 30 years was an uphill battle. From the historic walkout to distributing flyers and organizing rallies, it was a Herculean effort. But it never would have happened without the dedicated efforts of dozens of people including those who have left the News for bigger and better things.”
– In Chicago federal court last week Judge Sara L. Ellis criticized Border Patrol tactics during protests—partly in response to litigation brought by Chicago News Guild alongside other organizations such as ACLU—and issued an injunction against aggressive enforcement measures.
Judge Ellis said: “The government would have people believe instead that the Chicagoland area is in a vise hold of violence ransacked by rioters and attacked by agitators… That simply is untrue and government’s own evidence in this case belies that assertion.”
– Nonprofit workers at Evergreen Collaborative ratified their first contract through Pacific Northwest Newspaper Guild; provisions include pay raises flexible schedules retirement security and equity initiatives.
Emily Halvorson state press secretary said: “We’re so proud that our 10-member team has secured a contract guaranteeing fair pay and real balance proving that sustainability begins with people behind mission.”
– Avodah staff ratified their first contract via Washington-Baltimore News Guild following voluntary recognition; Lauren Fine Alumni Manager commented: “The Avodah Staff Union is beyond thrilled to ratify our first contract joining growing community unionized Jewish nonprofits taking place long lineage Jewish labor organizing.”
– South Florida Sun Sentinel journalists continue bargaining with Alden Global Capital seeking fair wages benefits resources after forming Sun Sentinel Guild in August 2024.
– Canadian Media Guild will hold elections next week (November 10–14) for several leadership positions; only current members may vote.
– Retirees are now automatically enrolled into retiree chapters at both The NewsGuild of New York and Washington-Baltimore local chapters as part CWA Retired Members Council—a move intended strengthen support networks between retirees active staffers.
Susan DeCarava noted: “This motion was inspired by and celebrates retirement Kathy Wilmore longtime Scholastic Unit Chair whose many years dedicated service unwavering commitment advancement our members all workers exemplify true spirit solidarity leadership.”
Finally The NewsGuild announced it is hiring a campaign lead based in Washington DC focused on legislative initiatives.
