This morning, the New York Times tech staff, which includes software developers and data analysts, went on strike.
The strike could affect the paper’s coverage of Election Day:
The two sides negotiated until late Sunday. The sticking points in recent days were over whether they could get a “just cause” provision in their contract, which means workers can be terminated only for misconduct or another such reason; pay increases and pay equity; and return-to-office policies.Times management said in an email to workers on Sunday that it had offered a 2.5 percent annual wage increase, a minimum 5 percent pay increase for promotions and a $1,000 ratification bonus. It also said that the company would maintain its current in-office work requirements of two days a week through June 2025, while allowing employees to work fully remotely for three weeks per year.
The protests started at 9 AM ET.
“They have left us no choice but to demonstrate the power of our labor on the picket line,” Kathy Zhang, the guild’s unit chair, announced. “Nevertheless, we stand ready to bargain and get this contract across the finish line.”
“We are disappointed that the Tech Guild leadership is attempting to jeopardize our journalistic mission at this critical time,” said Hannah Yang, the NY Times’ chief growth and customer officer, and Jason Sobel, the chief technology officer.
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