Letter From the Vice President

"Hello Members!

"There’s something in the air, and it’s not just that lovely autumn petrichor. All around me, people seem incredibly focused and engaged. A friend called this warrior season; I like that. 

"My name is Kirsten Foe, and I join the members of the Portland Local in wishing our president, Robert Blanche, a speedy recovery. I’m proud to represent you as vice president, co-chairperson of the regional stunt and safety committee, and all around union warrior. 

"As a stuntwoman, safety is always my biggest concern — and not just my safety. We need safe working conditions for every person on set, and that sense of security should extend to the audition process as well. SAG-AFTRA is regularly enacting and reviewing the rules and regulations created to keep you safe at work. From the new stunt coordinator regulations, (which our local stuntwoman and Local Board member Michelle Damis worked tirelessly on to ensure fair representation for our local coordinators) to emboldened protections against sexual misconduct, your union is working to ensure safe working environments, free of the fear of harassment. 

"Another issue near and dear to my heart is representation. If you feel like your voice has been lost, I assure you, we’re listening. I’m proud to say, your Local Board considers inclusiveness and equality in every motion we put forward. We’re working to set fire to the discriminatory practices that exist in this industry; we urge you to join us. Share your story, come to a meeting, join a committee; your voice is unique — use it!

"Your Local Board is highly energized and is currently tackling a number of important issues. Recently, we had a very successful wages and working conditions meeting in Portland for our upcoming Commercial Contracts. Thank you to those who joined us. We’re perpetually working to educate people about the ease of using our contracts. And, of course, we’re always working to flip more jobs from non-union to union. Additionally, to show our support for local and independent filmmakers, we participated in two film festivals, sponsoring and personally offering many educational workshops. With so much going on, we need you to join the battle. Harness your warrior strength, pick the issues that matter most to you, and join us as we continue to fight for our rights. 

"The change in the weather means prime film-watching days are here. Before we know it, that magical time of year, screener season, will be upon us. I’m looking forward to watching some great movies!

"I hope you’ll join us at a membership meeting or an event soon, and I can’t wait to see all of you at our SAG Awards gala on Jan. 27 — it’s going to be a night to remember!"

This item was featured in the Portland Local newsletter.