In a recent announcement, Michael Winship, the current president of the Writers Guild of America East (WGA East), revealed that he will not seek re-election in September. After serving as president from 2007-2017, Winship agreed to run again in 2021 to address constitutional revisions and other membership concerns. However, he made it clear that his intention was to serve for only two years. Despite the unfortunate timing of his departure, as it coincides with the ongoing strike against the AMPTP, Winship assured members that he would remain involved until late September and continue to support the guild even after his term ends.
The leadership change at the WGA East comes at a crucial moment for the guild. The strike against companies that are members of the AMPTP is ongoing, and the guild is actively fighting for the rights and fair treatment of its members. The WGA East also represents a significant number of digital journalists in addition to writers, further highlighting the importance of strong leadership during this time.
The list of candidates released by the WGA East reveals that Lisa Takeuchi Cullen, the current Vice President for film/TV/streaming, is running unopposed for the president’s seat. This suggests that she has the support and confidence of the members to take on this role and continue the work of advocating for the interests of writers and journalists.
While Winship’s decision not to seek re-election may have been a difficult one, he emphasized his long-standing commitment to the guild and the need to pass on the responsibility to the new generation of members and elected council. With more than four decades of membership and active involvement, Winship has played a significant role in shaping the guild and fighting for the rights of writers. He acknowledged the support he has received from friends and family, who are eager for him to take on new challenges, and expressed his gratitude for the honor it has been to serve the guild.
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Despite the change in leadership, Winship reassured members that the guild is in good hands. He highlighted the exceptional team of elected leadership, dedicated staff, and members who have been working tirelessly to ensure the success of the strike and protect the interests of writers and their careers. Drawing from his experience of leading the guild during the previous strike in 2007-08, Winship expressed confidence in the collective effort and determination of the guild to secure a favorable outcome.
Looking ahead, Winship encouraged members to remain united and committed to the cause. He emphasized the importance of solidarity and the need to continue fighting for fair treatment and respect in the industry. While his departure marks the end of an era, Winship expressed hope for the next chapters of the guild and the continued progress and achievements that lie ahead.
In summary, Michael Winship, the current president of the WGA East, has announced that he will not seek re-election in September. After serving as president from 2007-2017, he agreed to run again temporarily to address certain issues within the guild. Despite the timing of his departure coinciding with the ongoing strike, Winship remains committed to supporting the guild until his term ends and expressed confidence in the elected leadership and members working towards a successful outcome. The WGA East faces a pivotal moment, and Lisa Takeuchi Cullen is running unopposed for the president’s seat, poised to lead the guild into the next phase of advocacy and progress.
