Communications Committee Report

Gathering for the MLK Parade at Magic Island. Photos by Steve Lowery  

The local’s activities started off strong and united. We, along with the state AFL-CIO, other unions and community groups, marched down Kalakaua Avenue to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and his legacy on Jan. 16. Over 30 members and friends walked proudly, wearing our union hats and T-shirts, waving SAG-AFTRA signs and holding our banner. Our voices were heard as we chanted, “What we do and why we do it.” It was day of solidarity and demonstrating why unions matter. 

On Jan. 18, board members joined Local Executive Director Brenda Ching on opening day at the Legislature. Joining us were representatives from the IATSE Local 677, AFM Local 665 and Teamsters Local 996. We were there to thank the legislators for their support of the film industry. This is a critical year, as the production film tax credit expires at the end of 2018. 

On Sunday, Jan. 29, we met again at Honey’s restaurant to celebrate our peers and view the 23rd Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards live broadcast. A big thank you to board members/co-chairs Leanne Teves and Jean Simon for organizing this fun-filled event that focused on our craft and allowed us to celebrate what we do while enjoying good food and camaraderie with our fellow actors.  

There was a member orientation on Feb. 15. Ching covered important topics on member benefits, contracts, Global Rule One and professional representation. Franchised agents Ryan Brown from ADR Model & Talent Agency and Kathy Muller from the Kathy Muller Talent & Modeling Agency were in attendance to answer questions about agency representation.

Recently, a casting call for background actors was held for union members at the Diamond Head Studios on Feb 25 for the new ABC TV series Next, now filming on Oahu. This gave us the opportunity to update our information and meet with the local casting director.

Save the date: Monday, May 15, is the date of our next membership meeting. Watch for emails with details and more information.

Andrea Sikkink, Chair

Start of the Parade 

The parade as seen from above the route

Peter and Don perform for the crowds.

Executive Director Brenda Ching and Fellow Union Marchers

Hawaii Local SAG-AFTRA members waving our signs in the parade

Members in the parade

Union pride

End of the parade group photo at Waikiki Beach