Snopes employees have announced their intention to unionize, seeking voluntary recognition from CEO Chris Richmond, CFO Drew Schoentrup, executive editor Doreen Marchionni, and director of accounting Amber Marsowicz. This move comes after 80% of eligible staff members signed union cards authorizing representation by the Media Guild of the West.
The proposed union will represent around 10 editorial staff members. The employees aim to secure job security, transparency, modern work practices, and fair compensation and benefits.
Voluntary recognition is becoming more common in journalism. Examples include the LA Public Press, The New Yorker, and ProPublica. With strong support among workers, the Snopes Guild and the Media Guild of the West argue that voluntary recognition would save resources and demonstrate management’s willingness to address issues raised by Snopes employees.
Founded in 1994, Snopes initially focused on urban legends and hoaxes. It has since grown into a respected fact-checking organization. Today, Snopes reporters cover celebrity rumors, scientific discoveries, and political news while tackling misinformation online.
In light of increasing misinformation fueled by generative artificial intelligence and declining fact-checking programs, Snopes’ role is deemed crucial. Employees are urging their employers to ensure they can continue their work effectively.
“Snopes writers are the lifeblood of this project,” organizers stated in a mission statement sent to management. “We remain nonpartisan and impartial despite backlash… In forming a union… we join a historic tradition in the fight for labor rights worldwide.”
The statement also noted that employees were reminded of what initially attracted them to Snopes: “qualities… worth fighting for.”
To summarize: Snopes is unionizing because fact-checkers deserve transparency too.
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