Farewell and Gratitude to the Twin Cities Members

The Twin Cities Local received its founding AFTRA charter on March 1, 1957. Sixty years later, Twin Cities’ members can be proud that the local continues strong under the banner of SAG-AFTRA. Throughout the years, the local has successfully navigated structural changes, evolving member priorities, leadership transitions and merger. Today, if one thing is constant, it is that rapid industry changes will continue to challenge us — the work of the union is more important than ever. I am grateful to have shared that work with Twin Cities’ members for a long time.

But it is also time now for me to make a personal change. I am excited to be starting a new professional chapter as a federal mediator. It has been a privilege to know so many of you over the years. You have given me many rich gifts: learning about your work as artists and skilled professionals; partnering with you as leaders in your own right, whether on the job, at the bargaining table or within the labor community; enjoying both deep conversations and light humor; working through the occasional setbacks; and, yes, at times enduring endless hours of meetings. Thanks to all of you, I have grown. I am confident of the Twin Cities Local’s future because of the leadership capacity of its members. I will always cherish my time as part of your labor family.

In unity,

Colleen Aho

This item was originally featured in the November 2017 local newsletter.