Farewell From the Los Angeles Local Executive Director

Dear Members,

It is with mixed feelings that I am retiring from SAG-AFTRA after 20 years.

When I came to Screen Actors Guild in February 2000 as a consultant, I was immediately in awe of the solidarity and commitment to the pending commercials strike. I saw members across the country using the power of one collective voice to combat the behemoth of the advertising industry in what would ultimately become one of the longest strikes in SAG history. Working with member leaders and the communications and marketing teams during those challenging months drew me into the power of a union. I knew then, that I had found the place I was meant to be, where my entertainment background and my passion for social justice would marry and thrive.  

In 2001, I became the executive overseeing the communications department, during which time I repeatedly witnessed SAG and AFTRA members’ unified muscle to prevail on Global Rule One implementation, collective bargaining negotiations and meaningful workers’ protection legislation. 

In 2005, I had the honor of being selected by the Hollywood Division Board to be the Hollywood executive director, where I would work side by side with the National and Local Boards to initiate positive change and advance goals, one of them being the realization of a merger with our sister union AFTRA. Since 2012, I have served as the Executive Director, Los Angeles Local with tremendous pride.

It has been my greatest privilege to advocate for your wages and working conditions and stand shoulder to shoulder with you to fight battles for performers’ rights. I am fortunate to have had your faith and trust for just over two decades. I leave SAG-AFTRA with very fond memories and great friendships.

I wish you all the best in the coming months and years, and remind you all to stay engaged in SAG-AFTRA and continue the quest.

With much gratitude,

Ilyanne Morden Kichaven
Los Angeles Local Executive Director