Op-Comic: Funny business at the writers' strike picket line - Los Angeles Times

Op-Comic: Funny business at the writers’ strike picket line

illustration of a crowd of Writers Guild members holding picket signs

(Ivan Ehlers / For The Times)

By Ivan Ehlers

May 14, 2023 3 AM PT

I'm not a WGA member, but I was welcomed to join the writers' strike picket lines alongside workers from allied professions.

There's no shortage of funny picket signs, but things get serious on topics like fair pay and a future in the industry.

The battle between the WGA and studios is reflected in many industries, with workers being squeezed while CEO pay soars.

Career ladders have been disassembled to keep low-earning writers at the lowest rung. Many may have to leave the industry.

The Teamsters, hospitality workers and bus drivers recognized they're fighting for the same things and showed support.

Other groups joining makes me optimistic for the labor movement. They know they're fighting for future workers.

Ivan Ehlers is a cartoonist and writer in San Pedro. His work has appeared in the New Yorker and MAD magazine, among other publications. @ivan_ehlers

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