FAQs

Why are journalists at The State unionizing?

After decades of disinvestment in local news, lay offs and a new hedge fund owner, journalists at The State want a seat at the table for decisions about the future of The State, local news and our working conditions. Each journalist can only do so much bargaining alone, but together we can negotiate a fair contract for all of us.

How does Right to Work impact workers at The State?

It doesn’t! Right to Work laws only mean workers don’t have to pay union dues if they don’t want to. It does not make it harder to start a union or effect the kind of protections unionization can provide. 

How will unionizing The State affect how journalists do their jobs?

Journalism will still be a demanding and fulfilling career after unionization. The security that comes with a contract that protects us from practices that could harm us and our ability to produce the news.

Is this a statement that workers are unhappy at The State?

No! The State is a great place to work and we believe unionization will help us keep it that way. Journalists at The State have a great relationship with management. A contract will help maintain this relationship into the future.

Can workers be fired for joining a union?

No. The law is clear that employers and managers cannot punish workers for joining or starting a union.

Who is behind all this?

The journalists at The State Newspaper. This is our union, and we decide democratically what we are going to negotiate to keep and obtain.

How will this help readers?

We love serving the South Carolina Midlands. By protecting our jobs and making The State the best place to work possible, we can continue The State’s legacy of creating useful, entertaining and enlightening journalism for our community long into the future. 

How long will this take?

We hope McClatchy will recognize our union quickly, as they have done with other newsrooms in the recent past. After either voluntary recognition or a union election our union and McClatchy will begin negotiating a contract. There is no set timetable for how long that can take. 

How can we support journalists at The State?

Share our message on social media, subscribe to The State and let us know what local news means to you!

How can I start a union at my news organization? 

Reach out to the NewsGuild!