The Writer’s Strike: Why We Should Care
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The 2023 Writers' Strike is upon us. As a writer myself, I can tell you that this is not a decision that has been taken lightly. The strike is a result of the failure of the Writers' Guild of America (WGA) to reach an agreement with the major studios and streaming services on a new contract that will fairly compensate writers for their work.
The WGA is fighting for better pay and working conditions for its members, who are the creative force behind the television shows and films that we all know and love. The studios and streaming services, on the other hand, are resisting these demands, claiming that they cannot afford to pay writers what they are asking for.
But let's be clear: this is not a battle between greedy writers and cash-strapped studios. This is a battle between workers and corporations, between those who create content and those who profit from it. The major studios and streaming services have been making record profits in recent years, thanks in large part to the content created by writers, yet they refuse to pay these writers what they deserve.
The strike is also a response to the increasing corporatization of the entertainment industry. The major studios and streaming services are no longer run by people who love film or television; they are run by corporate executives who care only about the bottom line. These executives have little regard for the creative process or for the people who make it possible.
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The major studios and streaming services are no longer run by people who love film or television; they are run by corporate executives who care only about the bottom line.
But the writers are not alone in this fight. They have the support of actors, directors, and other members of the entertainment industry who understand that the success of the industry is built on the talent and hard work of its creators. They also have the support of fans who love their work and want to see them fairly compensated.
So, what can we do to support the writers' strike? First and foremost, we can show our support for the writers by not crossing picket lines. If you are a writer, do not work during the strike. If you are an actor or director, do not work with non-union writers. If you are a fan, do not watch television shows or films that are being produced during the strike.
We can also use our voices to advocate for fair pay and working conditions for writers. We can contact the studios and streaming services and demand that they negotiate in good faith with the WGA. We can share information about the strike on social media and encourage others to support the writers.
In conclusion, the 2023 Writers' Strike is a necessary and just fight for fair pay and working conditions for the creative force behind the entertainment industry. We must stand in solidarity with the writers and use our voices and actions to support them in their struggle for justice. As Toni Morrison once said, "If there's a book that you want to read, but it hasn't been written yet, then you must write it." Let us show the same determination and creativity in supporting the writers who bring our favorite stories to life.
Nichole
Nichole (she/her) is the 26-year-old founder of W&S. When not busy writing a paper or running her business, you can find her at her local pilates studio butterfly stretching or indulging in plant-based burger.
