March 7, 2018 – Storytellers at a revolutionary, subscription-based media outlet that covers “under-explored, under-examined and under-reported stories,” have affiliated as associate members with The News-Guild-CWA through the Philadelphia Local.
Ark Republic is “comprised of ARKITECTS, a collective of dope and brilliant people involved in a diverse range of industries who narrate, construct and converse in global dialogues and topics,” its website says.
The group announced its affiliation with the Guild on March 6 via a tweet that ended with, “Did we say unionized @MsArnold @Kaiashivers @AFLCIO? Yup!”
“Being part of a union continues the tradition of protecting the blood and sweat equity of the people,” said Dr. Kaia N. Shivers, founder and editor-in-chief of Ark Republic. “There are so many talented and gifted creatives that will benefit from union representation. This is a huge gift by [Philadelphia Newspaper Guild] Local 38010 that is integral in our growth.”
Bill Ross, executive director of The Philadelphia Newspaper Guild, said Ark Republic’s mission, to engage readers to promote change, “is a shared vision that the NewsGuild and Communications Workers of America believe in.”
As associate members, Ark Republic’s storytellers are eligible for certain benefits, such as access to the Local’s popular Telemedicine program, Teladoc, at no cost to the member or their families, with no co-pays. They also will be eligible for a $10,000 life insurance policy through Hartford Insurance, work/life counseling, and other benefits.
In addition, they are exposed to partnership opportunities at nonprofit organizations represented by the local, including local and national media outlets, Ross said. “We look forward to helping Ark Republic thrive and prosper.”