Pittsburgh Post-Gazette Union Condemns Use of AI During Strike

Union Files Grievance Over AI Illustration in Newspaper

The union representing Pittsburgh Post-Gazette employees has filed an official grievance condemning the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to create an illustration in the newspaper. The union argues that the use of AI threatens journalism jobs and undermines the work of union members.

Strike Enters 16th Month

The strike by Post-Gazette workers has been ongoing for nearly 16 months. The strike began in October 2022, primarily over the loss of healthcare coverage. Union officials claim that the paper's owner refused to pay for employees' existing coverage.

Demands of the Union

The Newspaper Guild workers have several demands, including an end to contract negotiations deadlock, reinstatement of previous working conditions, a fair deal for journalists, and meeting the healthcare demands of striking sister unions.

Management Hires Strike-Breaking Workers

In an attempt to continue publication during the strike, Block Communications, the owner of Post-Gazette, has hired more than two dozen strike-breaking workers. This is reportedly the first time management has used AI instead of human workers.

AI Use Ignites Controversy

The use of AI in the newspaper industry has raised concerns about the threat to journalists' livelihoods. The Newspaper Guild argues that AI-generated content is inferior to work produced by staff members and diminishes the value of their talent.

Legal Battle Ensues

Post-Gazette workers received support from a National Labor Relations Board ruling in January 2023, which found that management did not negotiate in good faith and imposed illegal working conditions. However, Block Communications has appealed the decision.

The Fight Continues

The union remains determined to fight for the rights of workers and ensure that the newspaper is created by union labor rather than AI or strike-breaking workers. The union's president declared that the fight is not over.

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By: Brett Wilkins
Title: Pittsburgh Post-Gazette Union Condemns Use of AI During Strike
Sourced From: therealnews.com/ai-will-not-scab-us-post-gazette-newsroom-decries-use-of-artificial-intelligence
Published Date: Wed, 24 Jan 2024 17:27:22 +0000