Jody Collins: Why we need a union

I’m supporting a union because I love journalism and what it represents. It’s a voice for those whose voices might not be heard otherwise. It’s holding those in power to account. It’s asking the questions people want answered.

I came into the business as the new millennium began and have seen how quickly and dramatically newsrooms changed. Where once we had own own staffs, newsrooms, buildings, presses — we lost those as Media News and then Alden took over. We became one larger Southern California newsroom, and lost a lot of wonderful, talented colleagues in the process.

None of us came into journalism with dreams of making big money. We wanted to make a big difference. The problem is, journalism under Alden isn’t loving us back. It’s seen our resources, newsrooms and people lost in the process. It’s become so stretched that we are asked to do more and more each year, with less pay and fewer benefits. As for me personally, I’m getting priced out of Southern California, a place where 5 generations of my family have lived. I just can’t afford an apartment for me and my son here — never mind a house.

Educated, dedicated people who have spent their entire career working at a white-collar job shouldn’t still have to struggle to get by 20-plus years later. It’s not right and that’s why I’m joining SCNG Guild.

Jody Collins is a digital producer for SCNG.