The ongoing labor relations at Dark Horse Comics are garnering attention as the Dark Horse Workers United union reveals significant tensions between editorial staff and management. This situation not only impacts labor dynamics but could also have broader implications for the toy and collectibles industry as it highlights the critical nature of employee representation and rights within creative enterprises.
The Dark Horse Workers United union, established earlier this year and recognized by Dark Horse Comics soon after, has recently issued a statement outlining their grievances. They contend that the company is pressuring Senior Editors to relinquish their union membership, join management, or accept demotions along with significant pay cuts.
According to the union, “Dark Horse leadership is attempting to diminish union membership by asserting supervisory status for Senior Editors, who have historically not held management roles. Since signing the Voluntary Recognition Agreement, Dark Horse Workers United has engaged in good faith negotiations towards a contract. Unfortunately, this goodwill has not been mirrored by the company. Our Senior Editors, who collectively offer over a century of dedication to crafting beloved comics, are now facing undue pressure. At present, Senior Editors do not possess supervisor roles, yet Dark Horse aims to alter this by assigning them supervisory duties and acting as if they have held such roles all along.”
Recently, Senior Editors received ‘job clarifications’ that fundamentally altered their position descriptions. Should they refuse to take on management responsibilities, they would face demotion and potential salary cuts of around $10,000. Dark Horse has stated, “The agreement recognizes that, under the National Labour Relations Act, statutory supervisors are not eligible for union representation. We remain committed to collaborating in good faith throughout the collective bargaining process.”
In response to these developments, Dark Horse Workers United organized a protest against what they call union-busting actions at Milwaukie Waterfront Park. The event aimed to support the Senior Editors and emphasize the significance of safeguarding labor rights for all employees. Supporters were encouraged to don costumes of their favorite characters, engaging the larger community.
People’s World reported on the rally, where a union committee member voiced concerns over management’s tactics, suggesting that such actions threaten job security and disregard the unity of the union’s collective efforts for a democratic workplace. “We, the membership of Dark Horse Workers United, demand that Senior Editors be recognized as frontline workers, retain their current pay, and continue their role as union members,” they proclaimed. Portland City Councilperson Angelita Morillo echoed these sentiments, urging Dark Horse leadership to fulfill their promises regarding creative ownership and equitable worker treatment.
The demonstration showcased attendees marching past Dark Horse offices, adorned in cosplay, chanting slogans like “I Bust Ghosts Not Unions” and “Dark Horse Heel Turn.” Participants in costume received Dark Horse Workers United T-shirts, reinforcing the community’s solidarity.
Based on reporting by https://www.facebook.com/richard.james.johnston. Read the full story at https://bleedingcool.com/comics/dark-horse-demands-editors-quit-union-join-management-or-take-pay-cut/.
