A Letter From Your Philadelphia Local President

SAG-AFTRA Philadelphia Local Members,

It’s a new year, why not consider local committee service? Participation in your union is paramount to building community and strengthening our Philadelphia Local.

If you’re currently serving on a committee, no need to reapply; you’ll continue to be part of your current committee(s). If you’re not currently active in one of our groups, please consider lending your experience and talents by participating in local committee service. We need helpful, experienced and knowledgeable members willing to volunteer their time to our local community of SAG-AFTRA members.

If you would like to be of service, please consider one of the following local committees:

Broadcast Steering
The Broadcast Steering Committee works on matters regarding broadcast jurisdiction, including minimum standards; internal and external organizing efforts in broadcast jurisdictions; and larger policy issues affecting broadcast industry/members. It also conducts informational and educational programs for members related to current and anticipated issues in broadcasting. 

Diversity
The Diversity Committee is committed to facilitating collaboration and communication between diverse members so that, together, member leaders have a forum in which to support each other’s work toward achieving both individual and common goals. (Asian Pacific American Media; Ethnic Employment Opportunities; Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender; Native Americans; Performers with Disabilities; and Seniors are some diversity topics considered at the local level). 

Women’s
The Women's Committee works to influence and improve the quality and quantity of employment opportunities for female members across all media platforms. Through collaboration, education and advocacy, it encourages positive and diverse images of women and the elimination of stereotypes, ageism and gender bias to better reflect the American Scene in the entertainment and news industries. 

NextGen
The NextGen Performers (NGP) Committee works to develop, serve and connect the emerging generation of SAG-AFTRA membership. Through educational opportunities, social events, social media and community outreach, NGP creates an educated, engaged and energized young adult membership. NGP reinforces the vitality and benefits of SAG-AFTRA early in our members’ professional lives. 

Conservatory
The conservatory provides support, shared information and resources for SAG-AFTRA members and helps facilitate growth in the local by assisting members in providing training and professional development through regular interactive communication.

Background Actors
The Background Actors Committee is committed to addressing issues and concerns of those members who do background, stand-in and photo-double work through member advocacy, outreach and education, organizing, participation in industry events and by making recommendations to staff or to the Board.

If you are interested in participating, please follow these steps.

• Send an email to ryan.stapleton@sagaftra.org by Friday, Jan. 27.
• Put “Local Committee” in the subject line.
• List your professional name, member ID and your local committee(s) of interest in the body of your email.
• If appointed, you will be notified and invited to the next committee meeting.
• Please send any questions to ryan.stapleton@sagaftra.org.

Strengthening our union is like building a house. We need a good foundation and many joined pieces working together to create a solid structure.

Let’s build together.

In unity,

Nicole Izanec

Philadelphia Local President