Dear Members,
1968 was a seminal year for civil rights, gender rights and student movements for our nation. I have no doubt the summer of 2023 will be remembered as a pivotal chapter in the history of our profession. The outcome of SAG-AFTRA's strike against the companies represented by the AMPTP (Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers) will determine whether the performing arts remain a viable way for current and future generations of actors to earn a living.
The studios and streamers have revealed their greed. SAG-AFTRA has made the key issues of the negotiation public at this link, and even with a 12-day extension, the AMPTP could not come to the negotiating table with a fair, equitable and respectful deal. Because of the studios’ delays, SAG-AFTRA members are now forced to withhold our labor on the expired TV/Theatrical/Streaming contracts.
YOU play an essential role in this action. Whether or not the work you do falls under the expired contract, here’s what you can do to support your fellow actors:
Stay informed - The strike website is where you’ll find all the info you need. It’s updated constantly. Visit the FAQ, because most of the questions you're asking have answers provided there, including what you can and can't work on, personal appearances, non-member impact and more.
Take part in the action - Attend local events, post on social media, make use of the info provided, sign up to volunteer!
Be patient - The negotiating committee is working with SAG-AFTRA staff, affiliate organizations, and legal counsel to implement the precise strategy needed to secure the best outcome. There’s a reason for each event and information drop. Help us help you by supporting the union and know work is being done behind the scenes on your behalf.
Make sure your indie productions are following the rules - Interim agreements for independent projects are in the works and approved projects are posted on the website HERE.
If you require financial or social service assistance, check your LA Local Resources page. It will be updated periodically. Please note these resources, in particular.
Support your fellow members - If you can, donate to the SAG-AFTRA Foundation and the Entertainment Community Fund emergency assistance programs to help those financially impacted by the strike.
I want to thank all of the Los Angeles Local members for showing up on the picket lines the first weeks of the strike. I'd also like to add a very special thanks to those members that have taken on the added responsibility as strike and gate captains. Your efforts in support of this contract and fire are so important and much appreciated.
I look forward to working with every member in the Los Angeles Local during this historic effort, and I sincerely hope our union's unprecedented solidarity will empower those working in all industries to defend themselves against greed and exploitation. This fight is for artists and all workers. We must stand firm against the corporations making huge profits off our labor, all the while nickel-and-diming us.
Let’s create history together, moving forward together.
All good things,
Jodi Long
Los Angeles Local President
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