A Letter from Your Los Angeles Local President

Thank you for supporting me in becoming your SAG-AFTRA Los Angeles Local President!

It is an honor and responsibility that I do not take lightly. Each and every one of you, with your hopes, dreams and successes, is important to the well-being of this union.

And that is why we call it a union. Young and old, seasoned and just starting, my job is to ensure that the protections and gains made by previous generations continue to help and enrich the lives of the members whose chosen fields are covered here: broadcasters, dancers, background, singers, stunt performers, recording artists, voiceover artists, actors. As the largest local in the union, I want you to know that I will do my best to represent the interests of every one of you.

Service at times is not easy but it is well worth the reward of helping our fellow members.

After many years of experiencing the divide within our boardrooms, I feel it is necessary for a change, to shift the culture in how we go about the business of the union. We can agree that at some point we will disagree; that’s what makes for a healthy democracy, a healthy member-run union. But the rancor, the lack of transparency, the disrespect insinuated is a toxic brew that needs to be swept out. My job is to set the tone, and I am hoping we can all come together to uplift each other toward cooperation and a greater good.

Lastly, my wish is to inspire newer, younger members to get involved in growing and expanding this union together. The Los Angeles Local is one of the few SAG-AFTRA boardrooms that allow observers. Since the pandemic, we have been operating virtually, but in due time we’ll be back to in-person meetings. Come see how your union goes about handling the very things that affect you. I would love to see you there because, after all, it is your future!

If you would like to get involved, don’t forget to sign up for local committee service. In case you didn’t see the email, here is the link: sagaftra.org/los-angeles-local-committee-service-request-form.

Be well, stay safe.
 
All good things,

Jodi Long
Los Angeles Local President