I never thought the day would come when I would ask anyone NOT to click on #ProPublica links.

[dedicto@zeroes.ca]

RE: https://union.place/@propublicaguild/116290657398834680

I never thought the day would come when I would ask anyone NOT to click on #ProPublica links. But that day may soon arrive. The #ProPublicaGuild (the union for ProPublica workers, including writers/reporters) has voted to authorize a strike. There is no strike yet, but the Guild has authorized its leadership to call a strike at their discretion if differences with management cannot be resolved. If they do strike, they will likely call for a DIGITAL BOYCOTT of ProPublica, to be implemented by refraining from clicking on ProPublica links — in effect, a picket line in cyberspace. The strike vote passed with 92% in favor of authorizing a strike. The principal issues at stake are: refusal to guarantee due process in disciplinary actions, refusal to respect seniority when doing layoffs, refusal to offer wage increases that will keep up with inflation, and — notably — refusal to offer guarantees against replacement of workers by AI.

I have donated to ProPublica in the past. But I now believe their reporters' work (frequently of Pulitzer Prize quality) can at present best be supported by standing in full #solidarity with @propublicaguild, which will include observing their digital #boycott if a #strike is called. Please also follow them for further news and announcements relevant to the negotiations, and to the potential strike and boycott.