Scabby the Rat: The True Rat Czar of NYC's Writers Strike

Scabby the Rat, a giant inflatable rat used by unions to draw attention to labor disputes, has become a symbol of protest in New York City. Despite facing new challenges in the era of social media and influencer culture, Scabby remains a popular mascot at picket lines, including the recent Hollywood writers strike. While some workers may take offense to the rat's presence, unions insist that Scabby is protesting against contractors and companies, not the workers themselves. The rats are made of PVC vinyl and cost between $8,000 to $20,000, and are often subject to legal challenges and attacks.