At the end of May, it was announced staff for Dark Horse were moving to form a union with Dark Horse Workers United. In their announcement the organization said a supermajority of staff, including staff from Things From Another World which Dark Horse announced its intention to close, have voted to unionize. They are working with the Communications Workers of America (CWA), Local 7901.
The movement is asking Dark Horse interim CEO Jay Komas and Dark Horse leadership to recognize the union by June 3, 2026.
Dark Horse responded today stating it would voluntarily recognize the union, preventing a long initial process. The announcement was actually very humble, recognizing the grievances listed by the staff.
To the members of Dark Horse Workers United and everyone at Dark Horse:
I am pleased to announce that Dark Horse Comics is willing to voluntarily recognize Dark Horse Workers United as a recognized collective bargaining representative under standards established by the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB). Our representatives have reached out to the union’s attorney to initiate the appropriate next steps in this process.
I’ve read your statement carefully, and I realize that organizing a union is not something people do lightly. It takes courage, coordination, and a level of trust in each other. I understand the employees’ disappointment with how issues have historically been addressed. You’ve taken this step because you believe Dark Horse can be better. So do I.
Over the years, this company has asked a great deal of its employees. People have poured themselves into this work; accepting conditions, absorbing uncertainty, and sometimes carrying burdens that were not always fairly distributed because they believed in what Dark Horse stood for. That belief is something we must honor. Dark Horse understands and accepts the obligation to change and, as we embark on this journey, we will do so in genuine partnership across our entire team.
Voluntary recognition is an unusual step for employers, but in doing so Dark Horse intends to reaffirm its commitment that this new leadership wants to do things differently and enter into good-faith bargaining. Not because we are required to, but because it is the right thing to do. The path to a strong Dark Horse runs through a workforce that feels heard, respected, and genuinely invested in the company’s future, not one that feels like it must fight just to be seen.
To our creators and licensors: The team at Dark Horse Comics has delivered excellence for you time and time again. We see that excellence. Dark Horse is committed to providing a more supportive environment to ensure that legacy continues.
To fans of Dark Horse Comics: We care deeply not just about the stories we bring you, but about how we bring them to life. With greater respect and improved working conditions, we’ll build a Dark Horse you can believe in for more than just great comics.
On behalf of the Dark Horse Comics Leadership Team, we look forward to sitting down at the bargaining table with Dark Horse Workers United and continue to build something of which we are all proud.
With respect,
Jay Komas
Interim CEO, Dark Horse Comics
The union formed on five principles:
- Democracy: Our voices should be heard and valued, with fair representation.
- Diversity: Our work environment and publication titles should foster an inclusive atmosphere where everyone feels respected.
- Equity: We must collectively address each other’s individual needs, and work to reduce systemic inequality.
- Solidarity: We are strongest together. We stand together.
- Transparency: We are committed to safety and approachability in our work environment through clear communication and fellowship.
It also stated three goals:
- Improve job security, wages, and benefits by advocating and determining strategies for the improvement of the material needs of our workers.
- Create a transparent and equitable workplace culture where all teams feel comfortable communicating with each other, and vital information is shared company-wide.
- Acquire a seat at the table when critical decisions are made that will affect all stakeholders, including the workforce.
There’s still many steps to go.
- The National Labor Relations Board has to certify the union.
- There’s a membership drive following the certification where individuals sign up for membership.
- A “bargaining committee” is formed to negotiate with the employer.
- Then bargaining begins working towards a “tentative agreement.”
- That agreement is then voted on by the membership.
- Then the contract/agreement is then enforced.
While steps might seem simple, the process can drag on for years and can be a daunting process.
Congrats to everyone and props to Dark Horse for recognizing the union.
