The WGC is thrilled to announce that the Guild and IATSE have reached a national agreement to represent script coordinators working in the film and television industry.
Script coordinating is an entry-level position, usually for aspiring screenwriters. In recent years, the positions have often been staffed by workers from underrepresented communities, including writers who are Black, Indigenous and People of Colour (BIPOC).
Under the terms of the agreement, individuals working in the writers’ room whose duties are primarily administrative in nature will fall under IATSE’s jurisdiction. If their duties are primarily creative in nature, they will fall under the WGC’s jurisdiction. Individuals assigned both administrative and creative tasks will be concurrently represented, where IATSE represents the administrative work and WGC represents the creative work. Other items outlined include an agreement to review fees, and to collaborate on training and professional development.
It is our hope this agreement will protect young writers and provide them with the benefit of union representation as they build their careers in our industry. While we have taken a significant step forward, we still have work ahead of us, as our staff members work through the real-life challenges of delivering on the commitments we have made.
Thank you to all the members who spoke out on this issue and to the leaders of BIPOC TV and Film who laid the groundwork which made this agreement possible. We are grateful for the support and trust of WGC Council.
Questions about this agreement and script coordinator contracts can be directed to Aaron Unrau at [email protected].
