Spokane, Wash. – The Spokane Editorial Society, the union representing non‑exempt staff at The Spokesman‑Review, publicly opposed a plan that would keep suspended Executive Editor Rob Curley involved as the paper moves toward nonprofit ownership.
Union cites lack of confidence in board
In a press release and an Instagram post, the union said it has no confidence in the board of the Comma Community Journalism Lab if Curley remains in any capacity. The union’s statement noted that an internal investigation, led by an attorney hired by the Cowles Company, found no harassment or discrimination by Curley.
Curley, who founded the Comma Community Journalism Lab, was suspended with pay in August after accusations that he tried to fire a union member following a verbal altercation with a Comma employee. The union added that the employee in question was not permitted to edit Spokesman‑Review stories or oversee its reporters.
Disputed allegations and board plans
Union members have also described allegations of harassment involving Curley and other Comma employees to local media outlets. While Comma leadership has said Curley will not have a future newsroom role, the union learned that the board intends to give him the new title of director of philanthropy and a voting seat on the board.
“We strongly reject this decision,” union president Thomas Clouse said. “We believe our members, past and present, who reported feeling sexually harassed, lied to, or otherwise mistreated by Curley deserve protection.”
Ownership transfer and employee concerns
Publisher William “Stacey” Cowles agreed last year to transfer ownership of The Spokesman‑Review to Comma. The union is demanding written protections against retaliation from Curley or the nonprofit before the transfer, scheduled for October 30, moves forward.
Employees also expressed frustration that they still lack basic details about their future under the nonprofit ownership plan, underscoring the need for transparency and clear communication.
Context for the community
The dispute highlights broader concerns about labor rights, newsroom independence, and the future of local journalism in Spokane. As the paper navigates its shift to a nonprofit model, the union’s stance underscores the importance of safeguarding staff from potential retaliation and ensuring that leadership changes reflect the interests of the newsroom workforce.
Stakeholders, including readers and community leaders, will be watching how the board responds to the union’s demands and whether the proposed governance structure will gain broader support.
Original reporting: KHQ Spokane (news) — read the source article.
