Signal Ohio journalists launch union drive
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Journalists at Signal Ohio are forming a union with the Northeast Ohio NewsGuild, a local chapter of the Communications Workers of America.
Why it matters: Signal operates newsrooms in Cleveland and Akron, with a statehouse bureau in Columbus. It launched three years ago as an alternative to shrinking legacy outlets — namely Cleveland.com/The Plain Dealer.
- Workers say that as the organization grows — a Cincinnati newsroom is set to debut later this year — collective bargaining will strengthen their ability to deliver on the civic mission.
State of play: All 14 full-time reporters signed union cards to create the Signal Ohio News Workers Guild (SONWG).
What they're saying: "Supporting unions means supporting the rights of people to stand together, negotiate fairly and build a future rooted in mutual respect and shared success," Cleveland reporter Najee Hall said in a press release.
The other side: Signal Ohio CEO Rita McNeil Danish and board president Doug Ulman said they were committed to "open, respectful conversations" in a joint statement Wednesday.
- "We will approach this process with respect and good faith."
What's next: The group is asking management to voluntarily recognize the union and begin negotiating a first contract.
- If management does not voluntarily recognize the union, the group plans to file for an election overseen by the National Labor Relations Board.
- They are calling on readers and supporters to sign a petition urging CEO Rita McNeil Danish to recognize the union.
Editor's note: This story has been updated to include comment from Signal Ohio.