WGA Strike: International Day of Solidarity

Photos from all around the world provide inspiration for writers in our ongoing struggle with the AMPTP.

Wednesday, June 14 was the International Day of Solidarity. Check out these photos of writers joining together to support the current WGA strike.

One day later, we picketed here in Chicago in front of the CBS building.

I must’ve been stopped a dozen times with people who wanted to take a photo of The Godfather side of my sign. That AI quote? It’s an actual ChatGPT creation.

I met so many wonderful people at the Chicago event today. Libby, a former writer for The Onion … Erica, a playwright, TV writer, and movie director … Marilyn, an actor in the local theater scene … Ronald, a stunt actor … Matthew, an aspiring screenwriter who drove down from Milwaukee to support the strike and connect with other writers.

And then there was Lilly Wachowski.

When asked about her thoughts on AI, Lilly sees it for what it is: Nothing more than a way for companies to “Hooverize profits” (Lilly’s words).

For more extensive thoughts Lilly has about AI, check out her tweet thread here and why she voted NO in ratifying the proposed DGA agreement with the AMPTP. In my view, Lilly offers a brilliant analysis not only of AI, but also why the DGA aligns itself so closely with the AMPTP.

As one of the speakers at today’s Chicago rally said, “The AMPTP has no idea of how they have poked the bear.” The energy of striking writers is remarkable. There is way more commitment to the cause that in the 1988 and 2007–2008 strikes, at least in my experience.

This strike is not just about Hollywood writers. This is about workers everywhere. Corporate greed insanity vs. worker rights humanity.

Check out this video produced by the WGA:

For the latest updates on the strike and news resources, go here.