White Board Geeks Workers Rally for Fair Contract

A dozen White Board Geeks animation workers rallied at the independent animation studio on Monday to demand negotiations for a Collective Bargaining Agreement. The workers are represented by The Animation Guild (TAG), IATSE Local 839, and the Motion Picture Editors Guild, IATSE Local 700.

"As a new mom, having access to healthcare is one of my priorities in our negotiations with my employer," said Medical Project Manager Giselle Castillo, a member of the Bargaining Unit. "Whiteboard Geeks partners with many large medical and pharmaceutical companies, so the company sees first-hand the importance of access to affordable healthcare. Better access, whether through employer-provided options or a stipend, means healthier and more present employees who will continue to invest their time and talent with WBG.

White Board Geeks is a privately-owned animation company that creates hand-drawn animation for corporate clients and national non-profits. In November 2023, the creative professionals unanimously voted to form their union. Negotiations began in April 2024 but have been undermined by the company's demand to cut workers' pay by 60 percent or more, deny employees health care benefits, and refuse to negotiate fair job security protections.

“I have always wanted more stability within Whiteboard Geeks. Fair pay, job security, and healthcare would go a long way in supporting our very close-knit and talented creative team,” said Stephan Dartevelle, Storyboard Artist. “We can’t cut corners if we want to continue exceeding client expectations and having them come back for more. Management may not want to admit it, but we are the backbone of the company, and choosing to invest in us and negotiate a fair contract will benefit the company, as well.”   

Source: The Animation Guild

Journalist, antique shop owner, aspiring gemologist—L'Wren brings a diverse perspective to animation, where every frame reflects her varied passions.