Dark Horse Comics has announced it will voluntarily recognize Dark Horse Workers United, marking a significant development just one week after employees publicly launched their unionization effort.
In a statement released Wednesday, interim CEO Jay Komas said the company is prepared to recognize the union under National Labor Relations Board standards and has already contacted the union’s attorney to begin the process.
“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),” Komas said. “Our representatives have reached out to the union’s attorney to initiate the appropriate next steps in this process.”
The announcement follows last week’s news that employees at Dark Horse Media and its affiliated retailer Things From Another World had organized under Communications Workers of America Local 7901. At the time, organizers said 59 eligible employees had signed a letter requesting voluntary recognition by June 3, with plans to pursue a formal NLRB election if recognition was denied.
According to Dark Horse Workers United, the campaign was driven by concerns including pay equity, workplace representation, recent layoffs, wage and hiring freezes, leadership changes, artificial intelligence policies, and return-to-office requirements.
In his statement, Komas acknowledged employee frustrations and expressed support for the organizing effort.
“I’ve read your statement carefully, and I realize that organizing a union is not something people do lightly,” Komas said. “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.”
Komas also described the company’s decision to voluntarily recognize the union as part of a broader commitment from current leadership.
“Voluntary recognition is an unusual step for employers,” Komas said. “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 statement also addressed creators, licensors, and readers, emphasizing the company’s intention to create a more supportive workplace while continuing to deliver the comics and licensed projects for which Dark Horse is known.
The unionization effort arrives during a period of substantial change for the publisher. Earlier this year, founder Mike Richardson departed the company after nearly four decades, while Dark Horse also announced the closure of its Things From Another World retail stores and underwent staff reductions.
Founded in 1986, Dark Horse remains one of the comics industry’s most prominent publishers, known for creator-owned titles such as Hellboy and The Umbrella Academy alongside licensed properties including Star Wars, Alien, Berserk, and Trigun.
With voluntary recognition now on the table, Dark Horse Workers United and company leadership are expected to begin the collective bargaining process in the coming months.
You must be logged in to post a comment.