From the Executive Director

Most of our conversations are centered around our contracts, our work, and how we use our collective strength to make both of those better. But we’re not ignorant of current events. The recent events in Baltimore and similar events in Charleston, Ferguson, Staten Island and across the country have started — or restarted — a national conversation about race, inequality, opportunity and what kind of country we want to be.

SAG-AFTRA is one of the most economically and racially diverse unions in the country. Just recently at radio station WIP, for example, we won a grievance for a high-profile anchor, while at the same time gaining raises for members earning as little as $9 per hour. Also, in May, a special seminar on diversity in casting to address what we know is still a prevalent problem with lack of opportunities for people of color both in front of as well as behind the camera and microphone.

The point is that at SAG-AFTRA we are only ever as strong as the communities where we live and work. That is why we are affiliated with a range of organizations, including the Pennsylvania Film Industry Association and the Philadelphia Unemployment Project, which address all of the issues that our members face, not just those involving how they apply their craft. That is also why we involve ourselves in legislative initiatives that strengthen our communities, even though we do not endorse specific candidates for elected office. We have to find a balance between our core mission and our place in the greater community. 

What are your thoughts? Please share them with me at stephen.leshinski@sagaftra.org. How is SAG-AFTRA contributing to the national conversation and how are you contributing to the conversations at SAG-AFTRA?

Stephen Leshinski
SAG-AFTRA Philadelphia Local Executive Director

For the Future of Our Union