Journalists from the Fort Worth Star-Telegram have gone on strike over alleged unfair labor practices by the newspaper’s parent company. The newsroom’s union alleges the newspaper’s parent company, McClatchy, is not bargaining a contract in good faith. 

The strike is two years in the making, said Kaley Johnson, a justice reporter for the Star-Telegram who spoke to the Texas Tribune. She said McClatchy has refused to move on contract negotiations. Among the union’s proposals is a $57,500 wage floor. McClatchy countered with a $45,000 wage floor.

Journalists from the Star-Telegram are the first Texas’ newsroom to ever go on strike. The strike was approved by a huge majority of the members of the newsroom. They also published a statement where they stated their motives. 

“We regret that withholding our labor is a necessary tactic in the bargaining process. But after two years of limited progress, we see no other option. We hope this step signals to McClatchy that we will not accept an unfair contract and that they respond to this action with serious, fair proposals that our members deserve,” the statement says. 

According to the Texas Tribune, McClatchy is suspending health insurance and other benefits to the workers on strike. But Kaley Johnson said the only path for them to end the strike is simple, they need to earn more money.