Dear Member,
Join us at a rally on Tuesday July 25 at 10 a.m. in Times Square to Rock the City for a Fair Contract. Meet us on the pedestrian plaza between 43rd and 44th Streets. Check in begins at 9:30 a.m. I hope to see you there as we show that New York is a union town.
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 livelihood for current and future generations of actors.
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. SAG-AFTRA has made the key issues of the negotiation at this link.
- Take part in the action - Attend local events, post on social media, make use of the info provided, sign up to volunteer! It has been great seeing so many of you out on the picket line!
- 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.
- Stay the course - Thank you for your patience. The negotiating committee is working with our National Executive Director & Chief Negotiator, affiliate organizations, and legal counsel to implement the precise strategy needed to secure us the best outcome. There's a reason for each event and information drop. Know that. The AMPTP underestimated our resolve, but they'll be proven wrong. Our solidarity is our super power.
- 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 look forward to working with every member in the New York Local during this historic effort, and I sincerely hope SAG-AFTRA's efforts will empower those working in other industries to defend themselves against exploitation. This fight is for artists and all workers. We must stand firm against the corporations making huge profits off our labor.
Let’s create history together.
Forward Together,
Ezra Knight
New York Local President