Walt Disney Animation Studios Production Workers Ratify Historic First Union Contract

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Workers involved in production management at Walt Disney Animation Studios have, for the first time, approved a union agreement directly with the studio.

Following a significant and energetic union-organizing campaign, a majority of production workers successfully voted to form a union in February 2023. This decision was solidified when the agreement was approved by an impressive 96% of participating voters, receiving a total approval rating of 93%.

The decision validated the right for full-time production coordinators, production supervisors, and production managers to join the union formed by the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) and The Animation Guild (Local 839). In simpler terms, it was decided that these individuals are now eligible to become part of this specific union.

After a challenging climb, we’ve finally made it to the peak. We’re now experiencing our breakthrough – feeling empowered, determined, and united,” stated Tamara Lee, the production coordinator.

As a supporter of this contract, I’m thrilled to share that under its terms, our dedicated production workers will now be entitled to essential benefits such as pension and health coverage. Furthermore, significant wage enhancements have been established: production managers will see a 24% boost, production supervisors a 29% raise, while the hardworking production coordinators – the lowest-paid in our unit – will enjoy a 35% salary increase. This is a step forward in ensuring fair compensation for all.

Union organizer Allison Smartt stated, “In the slump of entertainment manufacturing, workers in one of the world’s leading corporations bravely demanded better conditions and wages. Their ongoing struggle for justice and fair compensation often goes unnoticed by the public. They have been gathering signatures, marching to submit petitions, staging silent demonstrations before executives, and consistently advocating for their rightful share for quite some time now. Their recent achievement of a groundbreaking contract will bring about lasting benefits across the animation industry, and I am confident they will continue to make a difference.

Discussions are ongoing with DreamWorks Animation regarding their initial contract, which represents the second instance of feature film production managers organizing with TAG. Notably, this time television workers are also part of the union.
Production supervisor Nicholas Ellingsworth commented, “In Hollywood, we appreciate a tale of an underdog. Our ratification was just that – the underestimated and undercompensated banding together to demand fair wages and equal status with our artistic counterparts. In the end, we were heard and acknowledged, and we have a roadmap for enhancing the work conditions within production management.” Ellingsworth further added, “We are aware that DreamWorks Animation is currently in negotiations, and we extend our best wishes, patience, and determination to them. Production management is accustomed to planning meticulously to achieve their objectives and overcoming unforeseen hurdles. There’s no doubt they’ll emerge victorious.

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2025-03-07 04:20