The Writers Guild of America strike of 2007-2008 lasted for 100 days and caused a shutdown of the entire television and film industry. The strike ultimately ended when an agreement was reached between writers and producers, but tensions have withstood to this day. Now at the beginning of May 2021, about 11,500 members of the union walked off the job once more, demanding better pay and working conditions for writers in the industry.
However, the impact of the streaming industry has exacerbated the issue of pay disparities for writers and content creators alike. Streaming platforms such as Netflix, Amazon, and Hulu have disrupted traditional pay models, leading to lower pay for writers and content creators alike. The union demands include higher minimum pay, more writers per show, and shorter exclusive contracts, a response to the ever-increasing digital compensation discrepancies.
The issue of fair pay and compensation is not just limited to Hollywood or the entertainment industry. In publishing, authors have fought for better compensation from their publishers, especially when it comes to e-books. The digital age has changed the way books are sold and consumed, but the compensation structure for writers has yet to catch up.
During Boston University’s commencement ceremony in May 2021, scores of students turned their backs on the head of one of Hollywood’s largest studios. David Zaslav, president and CEO of Warner Bros. Discovery, was booed and shouted at throughout his speech, while outside, 100 protesters chanted: “No wages, no pages.” Zaslav’s presence was a contentious pick, with many alumni taking to social media with their objections to his appearance.
The striking writers’ decision to protest at the graduation ceremony is a powerful reminder of the fact that wealth and power do not necessarily guarantee good intentions or a commitment to the greater good. Too often, those who hold positions of power or accumulate significant wealth prioritize their own interests or those of their peers, rather than working toward the betterment of society as a whole.
This is a troubling dynamic, as it can lead to a concentration of power and resources in the hands of a few, often at the expense of those who are less privileged. It can also perpetuate existing social inequities, as those who are already disadvantaged are left with even fewer opportunities and resources to create a better future for themselves and their communities.
By protesting at the graduation ceremony, the striking writers were highlighting the need for greater awareness and attention to these power dynamics. They were reminding the students that a commitment to the greater good should always be a priority, regardless of one’s wealth or social status.
This is a message that is particularly important for young people to hear, as they are the future leaders and change-makers of our society. By recognizing the inherent power dynamics that exist in our society and committing to addressing them, they can help to create a more equitable and just world for all.
By protesting at the graduation ceremony, the writers were trying to encourage the students to look beyond what is immediately apparent and develop a broader perspective on the issues that matter in life. They were hoping to show that while wealth and privilege may open doors, they do not guarantee quality or good intentions.
This is an important message to impart on young adults as they move on to the next stage of their lives. As they enter the workforce or pursue higher education, it is important that they recognize the limitations and potential drawbacks of wealth and power. By developing a more nuanced understanding of these issues, they can be better equipped to make informed decisions and contribute to a more equitable and just society.
Moreover, the presence of the striking writers at the graduation ceremony highlights the importance of speaking out against injustice and inequality. By taking action, even in seemingly small ways, individuals can help to effect change and make a positive impact on the world around them. Whether through protests, advocacy, or other forms of activism, we all have a role to play in creating a better future.
Zaslav’s response post-event was to state that he respected the writer’s strike and that he hoped