(CHICAGO, ILLINOIS) - Content Creators employed at WFMT, Chicago’s internationally-renowned classical radio station, have announced their intent to organize with the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA), the Union representing Professionals in the Entertainment and Media Industries.

The group is requesting voluntary recognition from WFMT management to begin the collective bargaining process.

The WFMT Organizing Committee said: “We are proud to work at such a historic broadcaster delivering world-class classical music and arts programming. Our collective goal is to build a sustainable future for both Employees and the station’s audiences worldwide. We are passionate about our work and are committed to WFMT’s mission, but the current environment has left many of us feeling undervalued, overworked, and voiceless. We believe in WFMT’s potential to thrive in the (21st) Century, but this requires empowering the people who bring the station’s programming to life. By joining SAG-AFTRA, we aim to create an environment where employees feel supported and valued. We plan to ensure that WFMT can continue its mission as a global leader in classical music and arts broadcasting, and in order to do that, we need a seat at the table.”

WFMT Organizers cite ongoing challenges at the station going back several years and firmly believe that remedies are possible only through collective bargaining with management.

“When Workers have a voice, the passion they bring to their jobs creates a more devoted, dynamic work force. I am hopeful that WFMT’s management understands that voluntarily recognizing the Union is a ‘win-win.’ I believe that everyone at WFMT, both management and Employees, want the station to be extraordinary, and this is a golden opportunity to work together to achieve that,” SAG-AFTRA National Executive Director & Chief Negotiator Duncan Crabtree-Ireland said. 

Voluntary recognition of the Unit would enable management and employees to move forward collaboratively, avoiding the need for a protracted election process through the National Labor Relations Board.

WFMT, part of Window to the World Communications Incorporated, has a long history as one of the leading classical music stations in the United States.

Its programming reaches audiences in Chicago and worldwide, featuring live performances, curated playlists and arts journalism.

SAG-AFTRA represents 160,000 Actors, Announcers, Broadcast Journalists, Dancers, DJs, News Writers, News Editors, Program Hosts, Puppeteers, Recording Artists, Singers, Stunt Performers, Voiceover Artists and other Entertainment and Media Professionals.

To Directly Access This Organizing Labor News Story, Go To: WFMT Content Creators Announce Intent to Unionize with SAG-AFTRA | SAG-AFTRA