In a recent development, the Writers Guild of America West (WGA West) issued an apology to its members for the harm caused by its decision not to release a statement following the attack on Israel that occurred on October 7th. The guild, which represents writers in the entertainment industry, faced widespread criticism for its silence on the Hamas attacks, which resulted in the tragic loss of over 1,400 lives.

Addressing the concerns raised by its members, the guild released a lengthy statement on Tuesday in which it sought to explain its decision and acknowledge the pain it caused. The guild clarified that it typically takes stances on domestic issues related to social justice or freedom of speech, while international tragedies have historically been outside the scope of their involvement.

While expressing remorse for the pain caused by their decision, the guild stated, "We are American labor leaders, aware of our limitations and humbled by the magnitude of this conflict. However, we understand this has caused tremendous pain and for that we are truly sorry."

This apology comes in the wake of nearly 400 writers signing an open letter denouncing the attacks and criticizing the WGA West for its silence. Conversely, another group of over 300 creative guild members signed a separate letter urging unions to resist pressure to take a stance, arguing that it could be construed as endorsing Israel's response.

The guild's decision not to issue a statement drew attention to their process and reasoning. They clarified that their primary focus is on advocating for writers' interests and defending social justice within the United States. While the WGA West has made statements on various occasions, they explained that the selection process on which issues to comment on can be imperfect.

The diverse viewpoints within the WGA West board further emphasized that the decision not to issue a statement did not stem from religious or sectarian divisions within the guild. The board members, like the broader membership and community, had differing opinions on the matter.

Expressing their horror at the atrocities committed by Hamas, the guild emphasized their deep mourning for the innocent lives lost in Israel and expressed solidarity with their members affected by the conflict. They also echoed the call for wisdom and peace in the region, emphasizing the importance of treating each other with respect and patience during this challenging time.

In closing, the guild affirmed the need for a shared commitment to peace and the value of human life for both the Israeli and Palestinian people. While acknowledging the limitations of their statement, the WGA West is determined to rectify the situation and is engaging in ongoing discussions to navigate the complex issues involved.

As this issue continues to unfold, the WGA West's apology signifies their recognition of the pain caused by their silence and their commitment to addressing the concerns of their members. The guild's willingness to engage in dialogue and work towards rectification is a step towards healing within the organization and reaffirming their dedication to the principles they uphold.