While the Writers and Actors continue their strike and fight for better benefits, the VFX workers for Walt Disney Pictures announced they have begun the process of unionizing after filing with the NLRB (National Labor Relations Board) for an election to unionize with the backing of the VFX Union.
It was a supermajority (Over 80%) of the 18 In-House VFX crew members at Walt Disney Pictures that signed authorization cards that signaled their desire to unionize.
This was the second time in history that VFX workers have banded together to demand the same rights and protection as their colleagues. If you recall, earlier this month, Marvel Studios VFX crew voted to begin unionizing on August 21st. The ballots are due on September 11th, and voting takes place on September 12th. The International President of IATSE, Matthew D. Loeb spoke about this historic moment and his admiration for VFX workers’ determination:
“The determination of these VFX workers is not just commendable, it’s groundbreaking. Their collective action against the status quo represents a seismic shift in this critical moment in our industry. The chorus of voices demanding change is unprecedented and demonstrates our united movement is not about any one company, but about setting a precedent of dignity, respect, and fairness for all.”
Matthew D. Loeb, International President of IATSE
These unionizing VFX workers are responsible for creating the VFX across the studio’s catalog, which includes Aladdin, Beauty and the Beast, and The Lion King.
A fun fact to remember is that the Walt Disney Company currently has THREE different types of workers trying to unionize, Walt Disney Animation Production, Marvel VFX, and now Walt Disney Pictures VFX. Disney CEO Bob Iger is already facing scrutiny for the comments he has made regarding the WGA and SAG-AFTRA strike, saying that the imminent strikes are very disruptive and very disturbing. A fair reminder that Bob Iger is currently earning about $27 million a year and running a company that has generated $22.3 Billion in revenue as of June 2023, but is facing a Nine-Year Low in the Stock Market. Some critics claim it is because the company is becoming woke, while others believe Disney is facing the consequences of past decisions regarding business and pure avarice. Most fans cheer for Disney in their ongoing battle with Florida Governor Ron DeSantis (who has been tricked left and right by a Company built on the success of an animated mouse), it is important to remember that Bob Iger and Disney wouldn’t be where are today if it wasn’t for the hard work and determination of the men and women who made Disney what it is today.
Source: Variety
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