Members of the Science News Media Guild (SNMG), who produce Science News and Science News Explores, plan to hold a 24-hour strike on Wednesday, November 5. The decision follows the union’s rejection of the Society for Science’s most recent contract proposal.
Jill Sakai, managing editor for Science News Explores, said, “We’ve been at the negotiations table for more than a year and a half and have been clear about the support our workers need to be able to continue doing our jobs well. Over and over, Society management has demonstrated that they are not hearing us and do not value our concerns.”
The primary issues cited by SNMG members are pay equity and increased flexibility regarding in-office work. According to union representatives, these concerns were not addressed in the latest offer from management.
Nikk Ogasa, a staff writer for Science News, stated, “I can only imagine how much our work would have benefitted if the Society had supported us these last 558 days instead of fighting against our needs.”
Previously, SNMG members voted with a 92% majority to authorize a strike if necessary. The union is seeking renewed negotiations with the Society for Science to reach an agreement that recognizes employees’ contributions.
The picket line is scheduled from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm at 1776 Massachusetts Ave NW.
