The Desk appreciates the support of readers who purchase products or services through links on our website. Learn more...

Philadelphia news photographers go on strike ahead of pope’s visit

wcau-news-vanDozens of photographers, technicians and other staff members at a local Philadelphia television station have gone on strike mere days before a massive news event is set to take place.

Management at NBC station WCAU-TV (Channel 10) are now resorting to backup plans for their coverage of Pope Francis I’s visit to Philadelphia this weekend after members of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers voted to strike on Wednesday.

The strike leaves WCAU without union news photographers, technicians, electricians and other staffers. WCAU says it has come up with a contingency plan that will rely upon “stringer” photographers and non-union freelance staff to fill the roles left empty by striking workers.

The station was notified earlier in the week by union officials that members would vote to strike if an agreement had not been made over a new employment contract. On Wednesday, the members voted to strike after reviewing WCAU management’s final offer, according to the Philadelphia Business Journal.

“NBC10 continues to negotiate in good faith with the IBEW to achieve a mutual resolution of our outstanding issues,” NBCUniversal, the parent company of WCAU, said in a statement released this week. “We are working hard to ensure there will be no impact to our viewers, who will continue to have access to all of our local news and information without interruption.”

One of the main points of contention revolves around WCAU’s desire to replace a handful of union workers with cheaper, non-union employees.

WCAU is a NBC owned-and-operated station. NBC is owned by the cable giant Comcast, which is headquartered in Philadelphia.

Never miss a story

Get free breaking news alerts and twice-weekly digests delivered to your inbox.

We do not share your e-mail address with third parties; you can unsubscribe at any time.

Photo of author

About the Author:

Matthew Keys

Matthew Keys is a nationally recognized, award-winning journalist with over a decade of experience reporting on the business of media, broadcast television, streaming video platforms and emerging technology. He is the founder, publisher, and editor of TheDesk.net, a trusted source for in-depth news and analysis on the evolving media landscape.

Matthew’s reporting has appeared in major industry outlets, including StreamTV Insider, Digital Content Next and KnowTechie, where he covers topics at the intersection of journalism, streaming services, and digital media innovation. Throughout his career, he has held editorial roles at respected organizations such as Thomson Reuters, Tribune Media, the Disney-ABC Television Group and McNaughton Newspapers.

Known for his accuracy, clarity, and deep industry insight, Matthew continues to provide reliable reporting and thought leadership in a rapidly changing media environment. His work is frequently cited by industry leaders, analysts, and trade publications.