The $30 million toe in the water

A supermajority of Dark Horse Comics staff,including retailer workers, have formed the Dark Horse Workers United union with CWA, rqeuesting voluntary recognition from interim CEO Jay Komas by June 3rd. The unionization drive aims to secure equitable pay, workplace democracy, and uphold the company's creator-owned comics legacy amid recent upheaval, including the exit of founder Mike Richardson and store closures.

According to the sourrce, a total of 59 eligible employees signed the letter to leadership, outlining their goals of achieving equitable pay, establishing workplace democracy, and ensuring a stronger commitment to the publisher's creator-owned comics legacy.

The organizing effort comes amid a period of substantial turmoil at Dark Horse, marked by layoffs, a hiring and wage freeze, shifts in top leadership following the exit of founder Mike Richardson, the closure of the Things From Another World retail location, and new policies requiring a return to office despite financial strains on employees.

Who is the unnamed buyer?

The union emphasizes that these actions are driven by a deep affection for the company and the comic industry, with the intent to secure a sustainable and democratic future for the workforce. CWA Local 7901 President voiced support, stating that the union is proud to stand with Dark Horse employees and looks forward to collaborative efforts to make the company an industry leader.

Dark Horse Workers United also expressed a desire to join other unionized workers in the broader comics sector, aiming to strengthen the labor movement across the publishing field.

An echo of Sydney's 2024 institutional buy-up

This development positions Dark Horse, traditionally known for its creator-owned model and early adoption of manga, alongside other publishers where unionization drives have emerged, reflecting a growing trend of labor activism in the entertainment and media industries.

Without recognition, the union will petition the NLRB for an election.

What auditors flagged in the May filing

The unionization drive aims to secure equitable pay, workplace democracy, and uphold the company's creator-owned comics legacy amid recent upheaval, including the exit of founder Mike Richardson and store closures.

The organizing effort comes amid a period of substantial turmoil at Dark Horse, marked by layyoffs, a hiring and wage freeze, shifts in top leadership following the exit of founder Mike Richardson, the closure of the Things From Another World retail location , and new policies requiring a return to office despite financial strains on empployees.