Animators organized with IATSE are demanding a better contract. Since July 2021, animators behind popular animated programs at Disney, Cartoon Network, and Nickelodeon have been working on expired contracts. Now, the Animation Guild is calling for a “New Deal for Animators.”

When live-action productions halted due to the pandemic, studios leaned heavily on animated professionals to continue their content output. However, workers on animated films are compensated far less than on live-action shows, for no good reason.

Inspired by the IASTE strike authorization last fall, animators are building power within their union. They hope to increase their strength as they hit the bargaining table.