WGA Staff Strike Enters Second Week Amidst Negotiations

The Writers Guild of America West (WGAW) staff union, representing approximately 100 employees, has been on strike since February 17, 2026. The strike was initiated due to allegations that union leadership failed to adequately address staff concerns regarding low wages and unfair promotion and discipline practices. Many employees reportedly earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually. The staff union's grievances have led to ongoing negotiations with WGA management, which have yet to yield significant progress.

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On Sunday night, WGAW management met with the Writers Guild Staff Union (WGSU) at a neutral site in San Pedro, California, in an effort to resolve the strike. Despite some movement on certain issues, WGSU co-chair Dylan Holmes expressed dissatisfaction, stating, “Management is still not ready to meet the moment.” The staff union accuses management of not bargaining in good faith, which has fueled the ongoing strike. A follow-up meeting was anticipated as early as Tuesday night.

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The continuation of the strike raises concerns about the upcoming WGA Awards, scheduled for March 8, 2026. Staff members typically assist with event production, and their absence due to the strike could complicate logistics and raise ethical questions about crossing picket lines. The situation has drawn criticism from within the WGA, with members like writer Joe Russo highlighting the hypocrisy of a union that advocates for its members but allegedly neglects its own staff.

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WGA management has denied allegations of bad-faith bargaining and has committed to working towards a resolution with the staff union. The WGA plans to begin negotiations with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers on March 16, 2026, for a new contract on behalf of writers, indicating that bargaining will continue despite the staff strike. Russo noted the challenges of negotiating on two fronts, emphasizing the need for resolution to focus on member agreements.

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The strike has prompted visible dissent among WGA members, who have joined staff picketing efforts. Signs carried by protesters have called out Ellen Stutzman, the guild’s executive director, for alleged unfair labor practices (ULPs), with messages such as “Come on y’all, this is embarrassing” and “Thought we were on the same team.” This internal conflict reflects broader concerns about the union's commitment to its staff.

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While the WGSU has accused WGA management of failing to negotiate in good faith, management maintains that they are committed to resolving the issues. The disparity in perspectives highlights a significant divide between staff and leadership, with no clear resolution in sight as negotiations continue.

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• “Management is still not ready to meet the moment,” — Dylan Holmes, Co-chair, Writers Guild Staff Union

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• “It’s very hypocritical and quite frankly embarrassing that a union that is always at the forefront of trying to get a good deal for its members won’t do the same for its own staff,” — Joe Russo, Writer

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• “Come on y’all, this is embarrassing,” — Protest Sign at WGA Picket

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• “Thought we were on the same team.” — Protest Sign at WGA Picket

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