NY Times Tech Staff Strikes Over Unfair Labor Practices
New York Times tech staff have initiated a strike in response to allegations of unfair labor practices. They are urging people to refrain from playing the Times’ games, such as Wordle and Connections, to show support for the digital picket line.
The strike commenced today after failed negotiations between the staff and management. Organized by The Times Tech Guild, a union representing 600 workers involved in developing and maintaining the technology for the New York Times’ website and games, the strike aims to address several concerns raised by the union.
The Times Tech Guild, with the support of the NewsGuild of New York, highlighted the need for remote/hybrid work protections, job security through “just cause” provisions, limitations on subcontracting, and fair pay practices. The union accuses Times management of violating labor laws during the bargaining process.
The strike action includes accusations of unfair labor practices, such as implementing a return-to-office mandate without negotiation and intimidating staff regarding their strike participation. The NewsGuild of New York has filed charges against the Times for violating labor laws.
The strike, which began at 12.01am ET on Monday, involves Tech Guild members picketing outside the Times’ entrance. The union plans to continue the strike from 9am to 6pm daily until progress is made in negotiations. Readers are urged to support the digital picket line by refraining from playing popular NYT games like Wordle and Connections.
Tech Guild unit chair Kathy Zhang expressed disappointment in the need for the strike but emphasized the importance of reaching a fair agreement with management. The New York Times spokesperson stated the company’s commitment to negotiating a fair contract while ensuring continued journalism coverage amidst the strike.