WORT FM: Union Member At Wisconsin Watch Talks Next Steps

From WORT FM, published on Oct. 25, 2023:

2023 has been the year of labor organization, with workers closing ranks across the country. And now, the nationwide movement has officially reached Wisconsin Watch’s newsroom. On Monday, employees at the nonprofit news outlet announced that they’ve formed a union. They’re waiting to get formal recognition from their higher ups.

In an email yesterday, Wisconsin Watch’s Executive Director – George Stanley – told the Wisconsin Examiner that the outlet’s board has reviewed the union’s letter requesting recognition. He also wrote, “We […] share their desire to build a strong, sustainable newsroom in which journalists can accomplish the most rewarding public service work of their careers – reporting that improves lives.”

This afternoon, WORT News Producer Faye Parks spoke to Jack Kelly, a statehouse reporter for the outlet and a member of the new union, to learn more about their goals. He says that the union is focused on formal recognition for now and – once that is accomplished – they will decide on any specific demands they want to bring to the bargaining table.