Moving on Together in 2024

It has been a tumultuous few years for the media industry. In addition to the decline of news outlets and a significant loss of jobs, we are seeing other challenges.

Newspapers continue to cut costs and eye shutdowns or mergers, even though surveys show Canadians oppose a shrinking media landscape.

Broadcasters keep slashing jobs, hurting both young workers desperate to practice journalism, and older workers who are often less appreciated as they become more experienced.

The proliferation of AI and the related drop in employment show no sign of easing. For years we’ve embraced technology as it has made repetitive tasks manageable. But now we are seeing damaging incursions few could have imagined just a few years ago, such as fully AI-generated copy.

Unions must monitor these changes closely and be part of the discussions on how and why AI is implemented in our workplaces.

A chilling global challenge is the number of media workers killed and injured on the job, whether in war zones, countries in conflict, or unstable regimes. At least 95 media workers were killed in 2023 according to the Committee to Protect Journalists. In most cases there is little hope for justice – impunity reigns.

And of course, press freedom is under increasing attack around the world, with growing threats to media workers. Coupled with the disturbing rise in misinformation and disinformation, the need for trusted news is more important than ever – another of the many reasons to celebrate World Press Freedom Day (May 3.)

In Canada we now know that the exposure to difficult topics can have long-term health effects. Thanks to unions like CWA Canada working with journalism schools and courageous activists, PTSD and other mental health injuries specific to media jobs are now recognized and taken seriously. That’s a major shift from the silence of the past.

Due in part to the openness sparked partially by the “woke” movement, there are other things we are now speaking up about and trying to change. Unions have a special responsibility to lead the fight against ‘isms’, including ageism, ableism, racism, and systemic racism at work. Last years’ survey by the Canadian Association of Journalists (CAJ) shows most newsrooms are largely white. Imagine the perspectives and ideas we are missing by not being more inclusive.

I am sure many of you were as shocked and saddened as I was to hear the painful reports from journalists, especially women of colour, regarding the hateful email they receive. We must acknowledge the damage caused and work together to make it stop. Thank you for everything you do to make your workplace more welcoming for everyone.

And thank you for helping CWA Canada continue fighting for healthier workplaces, better salaries, and an environment that encourages our best work.

This kind of dedication has led to a new generation of workers recognizing the power in being part of a union and working for the collective good. 

Another thing to watch as we move deeper into 2024, is the media money coming soon from the tech giants. CWA Canada has been part of the fight to make this happen for years as Meta and Google have swallowed a huge part of the ad money in the news industry without paying to create content. We will continue to push for Big Tech to pay its fair share.

Sometimes the good guys win.

In solidarity in the new year,

Carmel