Ocean State Media employees plan to form union
Employees at Rhode Island’s Ocean State Media announced Monday that they plan to form a union with the Screen Actors Guild – American Federation of Television and Radio Artists.
The employees said in a petition to management that they aim to bolster their role in decision-making about the organization and its future. They also seek “fair and transparent compensation, clear role expectations, and a say in determining our protections and benefits,” according to the petition.
“We want a culture that is collaborative, equitable and inclusive,” the petition says. “We want a workplace where all workers feel trusted and appreciated, where we have the tools and resources necessary to produce high-quality work, and in which concerns are respected, including those regarding staffing levels and working conditions.”
“We are proud to create public media every day for, and with, the people of Rhode Island and Southeastern Massachusetts,” the organizing committee said in a press release. “We believe that in order to sustainably and effectively serve that mission, the voices of staff need to be represented in our organization’s decision-making.”
The employees who signed the petition included hosts, reporters, and digital, audio and video producers.
CEO Pam Johnston has not responded to Current’s request for comment.
Ocean State Media was formed in 2024 by a merger of Rhode Island PBS and The Public’s Radio.
One can hope that Ocean State management will proceed in a way similar to Oregon Public, which according to Current’s reporting, voluntarily accepted the union and negotiated fairly. A strong union and culture of collaboration is very important.