What does Writers Guild of America (WGA) mean?
Writers Guild of America (WGA) is the union representing writers in film, television, and digital platforms. The WGA protects the rights of screenwriters, TV writers, and content creators by negotiating contracts that provide fair wages, health benefits, and pension plans. The guild also ensures that writers retain ownership of their work and receive residuals for reruns, streaming, and international distribution.
Founded in 1954, the WGA plays a crucial role in shaping industry standards, particularly regarding the protection of intellectual property, creative rights, and fair compensation. The guild has led several strikes to secure better working conditions and pay for its members, most notably during the 2007-2008 writers’ strike.
Example:A screenwriter for a feature film receives residual payments when the movie is streamed internationally, as secured by WGA contracts.
Example: A TV writer is compensated for reruns of an episodic series thanks to WGA-negotiated agreements, ensuring residual payments over time.
Did You Know?
The WGA has over 20,000 members, including writers in film, TV, news, and new media!
