Mar 6, 2024

A sweet victory for Nickelodeon animation workers as they ratify a groundbreaking new contract

The Animation Guild has confirmed the ratification of a new contract for Nickelodeon Animation Studio workers, combining protection for 2d, cg, and production workers into one comprehensive contract.

The agreement was ratified by an overwhelming majority of 89% of those who voted.

This was a hard-fought victory for Nickelodeon workers, especially studio production workers. In 2022-12, Nick production workers voted for a union with TAG, but the studio refused voluntary approval. By May 1, the studio had reversed course and recognized the negotiating unit in what became an early step towards a new agreement this week.

Under the new contract, workers will receive some improved protection and 1 completely new protection:

After the contract is ratified, Candace Stevenson of the Negotiating Committee explained:

This agreement is not only a direct result of a strong public show of solidarity among our members, but also shows the power of what multiple crafts working together can do.

Kyle Neswald, another member of the committee, was full of praise for many who lacked to see this deal come true.

It's hard to encapsulate how much effort Committee member volunteers have put into research, communication, information, organizing, energizing, swarming, reorganizing, negotiating, discussing, and fighting for better terms.

Speaking of negotiations, Steve Kaplan, business representative of the Animation Guild, said:

The work of the Nickelodeon Animation Studio Negotiating Committee reflects the solidarity of the Negotiating Committee that negotiated the master contract for 2021-2024. We were able to recognize animation production on a voluntary basis before negotiations and include the production staff for the first time. The Committee stood strong on all of our priorities and helped to achieve a landmark agreement.

According to the tag release, workers and studio leadership "look forward to working together and moving forward to continue creating quality content for children and families.""

Brian Keane, nickelodeon executive vp, production and operations, Added:

Nickelodeon Animation Studios is pleased to have reached this agreement with the Animation Guild. This agreement reflects Nickelodeon's commitment to being a best-in-class workplace and supports the continued growth of our business. We commend the Union's hard work in securing this agreement and look forward to our continued cooperation.