A majority of the 125 journalists represented by the Southern California News Group (SCNG) union, including staff at the Orange County Register, have authorized a strike as contract negotiations with ownership have stalled.
MediaNews Group, which is owned by Alden Global Capital, oversees dozens of newspapers across the U.S., including a slate of local papers under the Southern California News Group banner. Some of the publications include The Register, the Los Angeles Daily News, and the Press Telegram.
The union has accused MediaNews of engaging in “unfair labor practices and stall tactics” during negotiations. They also point out that many reporters, photographers and digital staff have gone 10 years or longer without a raise.
“This vote should serve as a wakeup call for management who for more than two and a half years of bargaining has failed to offer acceptable wages and benefits,” said Sean Emery, an SCNG reporter and guild unit chair. “The patience of our members is wearing thin. They are tired of struggling to survive on low wages that have remained stagnant for years.”
Representatives for Alden and MediaNews could not be reached for immediate comment.
Last year, union members, including those affiliated with the Register, took part in a one day walkout on Dec. 14.
