Journalists at some of the nation’s top regional newspapers are staging a significant protest against their parent company, known for aggressive cost-cutting in its newsrooms. Workers from publications like the Chicago Tribune and the Orlando Sentinel are planning a walkout on Thursday to demand better pay and secure benefits.
The action targets the refusal of the company to provide cost-of-living increases and its threats to abolish 401(k) matches. These papers, part of the chain previously owned by Tribune Publishing, have come under new management by Alden Global Capital since 2021, a move that’s drawn criticism from the staff.
Alden, which employees accuse of “vulture capitalist” tactics such as liquidating newsroom real estate, could see its newspaper production significantly hampered by the mass walkout. According to insiders, almost all union members, who contribute significantly to the printing process, are expected to join the editorial staff in striking.
Dave Roknic, a print production specialist, expressed uncertainty over the impending quality of the publications post-walkout, acknowledging that a paper will likely publish, but its standard could be compromised. Workers believe their efforts go beyond public relations, holding potential to impact the workings of the newspaper chain.
Gregory Royal Pratt, a Chicago Tribune reporter, indicated that the intended strike is merely the start of an ongoing battle against the company’s cost-cutting moves that threaten local journalism. He affirmed the resolve among journalists to persist with their demands.
Echoing the actions of their colleagues, journalists at the New York Daily News, also under Alden’s umbrella, executed a similar protest last week. The overarching message from the employees is clear – their fight for the integrity of their profession and community journalism is far from over.