December 5, 2022, 11:10am
Photo by Rye White.
As we enter what’s basically the last serious working week for corporate publishing (for some, anyway), it’s important to note that as of now, HarperCollins has yet to meet with any of its 250 or so striking contractors who are seeking better wages and benefits, along with deeper commitments to a diverse workforce. The strike, which began on November 10, is under the auspices of UAW Local 2110 and is a rare work stoppage in an industry terrified of organized labor.
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DONATE HERE TO THE HARPER-COLLINS UNION SOLIDARITY FUND
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Even though 250 is a relatively small number in the face of publishing’s many thousands of underlaborers (copyeditors, marketing assistants, etc.), this strike has drawn focus from across the industry, as it may serve as a template for further organization. In the words of HarperCollins contractor Rye White, who wrote a great frontline dispatch at n+1:
As one industry employee who stopped by to express support was saying to me this week, all eyes are on us. And we feel it. If we can move the company to make our workplace more equitable, then other publishers will have to change in kind to keep up. And I think all of us are keenly feeling our value and the necessity for a fair contract now. So what do we want? A contract. When do we want it? Now. If we don’t get it? Shut it down.
So, if you can, send a check in support of the HarperCollins Union. Every little bit helps in the holiday season.