Walt Disney Pictures VFX Workers Take A Step Towards Unionizing

Following in the footsteps of their Marvel peers, visual effects crews at Walt Disney Studios have taken a major step towards unionizing.

After filing with the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) for an election to unionize, a supermajority of the 18 in-house VFX crew members at Diseny signed authorization cards signaling their desire to do so.

Photo: Disney

“Today, courageous Visual Effects workers at Walt Disney Pictures overcame the fear and silence that have kept our community from having a voice on the job for decades. With an overwhelming supermajority of these crews demanding an end to ‘the way VFX has always been,’ this is a clear sign that our campaign is not about one studio or corporation. It’s about VFX workers across the industry using the tools at our disposal to uplift ourselves and forge a better path forward,” International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE), VFX organizer Mark Patch said in a statement.

Photo: Disney

A Historic Time In VFX

The historic move comes as VFX crews at Marvel Studios are in the midst of a vote to unionize themselves. Their union would be a first in the industry. Marvel ballots are due on September 11, and the vote count will take place on September 12.

Unlike many of their Hollywood peers, VFX workers have remained non-union since the field was pioneered in the 1970s.

Photo: Also Disney

As part of their movement to unionize, VFX workers are demanding fair compensation for all hours worked. Additionally, they want adequate health care and retirement benefits. Essentially, they want to be treated the same as their unionized coworkers.

“The determination of these VFX workers is not just commendable, it’s groundbreaking. Their collective action against the status quo represents a seismic shift in this critical moment in our industry. The chorus of voices demanding change is unprecedented. And demonstrates our united movement is not about any one company. But about setting a precedent of dignity, respect, and fairness for all,” International President of IATSE Matthew D. Loeb said.

Photo: Disney

Following Monday’s filling, a labor board election could commence in the next two to three weeks. If a majority of these workers vote in favor of unionizing, the studio would be required to begin good-faith negotiations for a contract.

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