Historic Union Victory for Walt Disney Animation Studios Production Workers
In a landmark achievement for workers’ rights, production management employees at Walt Disney Animation Studios have officially ratified their first-ever union contract with the studio. This hard-won victory follows a relentless organizing campaign that began with a supermajority of production workers voting in February 2023 to unionize under the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) and The Animation Guild, IATSE Local 839. The contract was overwhelmingly approved, with 96% of eligible workers participating in the vote and an impressive 93% voting in favor of the agreement. This historic contract not only solidifies the rights of production coordinators, production supervisors, and production managers but also sets a powerful precedent for the animation and entertainment industries.
The journey to this moment has been nothing short of extraordinary. Production workers at Disney Animation Studios embarked on an uphill battle to demand fair treatment, better wages, and improved working conditions. For years, they worked behind the scenes, often unseen by the public, to bring beloved animated films and stories to life. However, despite their vital contributions to the studio’s success, these workers faced challenges such as inadequate pay and limited benefits. Production coordinator Tamara Lee encapsulated the emotions of the moment, saying, "It’s been an uphill journey, but at long last, we’ve reached the mountaintop. We are standing in our breakthrough — stronger, bolder, and united." Her words reflect the resilience and determination of a group of workers who refused to settle for the status quo.
The newly ratified contract represents a significant step forward for production management workers, securing critical protections and benefits that will directly impact their lives and careers. Under the agreement, workers will now receive pension and health benefits, providing them with greater financial security and peace of mind. Additionally, the contract includes substantial wage increases for all members of the bargaining unit. Production managers will see a 24% increase in their minimum pay, while production supervisors and production coordinators will receive raises of 29% and 35%, respectively. These increases are particularly meaningful for production coordinators, who were previously the lowest-paid workers in the unit. By addressing these disparities, the contract ensures that all workers are fairly compensated for their essential roles in the production process.
Union organizer Allison Smartt highlighted the broader significance of this victory, emphasizing the courage and dedication of the workers involved. "During this downturn in entertainment production, production management workers at one of the most powerful corporations in the world stood up and demanded more," she said. "Their daily fight for fair treatment and pay is often outside the public eye." Smartt also praised the workers for their persistent efforts over the years, which included signing petitions, marching to deliver signatures, staging silent protests, and engaging in ongoing advocacy for their rights. These actions not only led to the successful negotiation of their contract but also set an inspiring example for others in the industry. Smartt added, "They’ve won a historic contract that will have positive impacts long into the future and throughout the animation industry, and I know they aren’t done yet."
The ratification of this contract marks just the beginning of a new era of advocacy and organizing for production management workers and their allies. For instance, negotiations are currently underway between IATSE and DreamWorks Animation to secure the first contract for production management workers there, including both feature film and television staff. This effort builds on the momentum created by the Disney workers’ victory and underscores the growing movement for fair treatment and equity in the entertainment industry. Production supervisor Nicholas Ellingsworth reflected on the significance of this progress, saying, "In Hollywood, we love an underdog story. Our ratification was just that — the underrepresented and underpaid coming together and demanding better pay and equity with our artistic counterparts. In the end, we were heard and seen, and we have a pathway to further improving the conditions in which production management works."
Ellingsworth also expressed optimism for the workers at DreamWorks Animation, who are currently in negotiations. "We know our colleagues at DreamWorks Animation are in the middle of their negotiations, and we’re wishing them all the luck, patience, and perseverance in their conversations," he said. "Production management is no stranger to strategizing to achieve their goals and navigating unexpected obstacles. There is no doubt they’ll come out on top." These words of encouragement highlight the solidarity and collective strength that define this movement. By standing together and advocating for their rights, production management workers are not only improving their own lives but also paving the way for better working conditions and greater fairness across the animation and entertainment industries.
In conclusion, the ratification of the union contract by Walt Disney Animation Studios’ production management workers is a testament to the power of unity, determination, and collective action. This historic agreement brings long-overdue recognition and compensation to the workers who play a vital role in creating the magic that defines Disney’s legacy. As this movement continues to inspire and empower others in the industry, it sends a clear message: fair pay, equitable treatment, and a voice in the workplace are not just aspirations but achievable realities when workers stand together to demand their rights. The journey may have been long and challenging, but the outcome is a resounding victory for these dedicated workers and a beacon of hope for those who continue to fight for justice in their own industries.
