At the beginning of 2020, SAG-AFTRA approved a calendar of events for the year reflective of the different types of activities the union had to offer, supported by a wide range of SAG-AFTRA union activists. This included:
- Professional development programs through Conservatory.
- Joint events co-sponsored by industry allies, including the Philadelphia Film Office, the Coalition of Labor Women, the New Jersey Film Office and other organizations.
- Social and community-building events such as the Labor Day parade, SAG Awards®, and area outings.
- Meetings of various committees, including the local NextGen Performers and Broadcast Steering Committees.
Obviously, by the end of March of that year, all of those plans would be put on hold for the next three years.
“We didn’t know what the future held at the time, but now we’re excited to be back planning events in and around the Philadelphia area to connect members, generate work opportunities and facilitate professional development for and within the membership,” said Philadelphia Local Executive Director Stephen Leshinski.
This is not to say that the last three years have not been incredibly busy. For our performers, it involved a constantly evolving Return to Work Agreement to ensure safe sets. SAG-AFTRA broadcasters were under intense pressure from a rapidly changing media environment, whether out in the field or in the studio, and the union handled multiple negotiations related to furloughs, safety, new contracts and other important issues.
"That important work will continue, but I'm so excited that we are moving forward on offering our usual schedule and events," added Leshinski.
Local events and programs come from and are run by the efforts of local members. Inquiries and event ideas are welcome and can be sent to philadelphia@sagaftra.org.
On behalf of the Philadelphia Local staff, we're looking forward to seeing our terrific membership in person soon.
This item was originally featured in the Philadelphia Local newsletter.
News
- Tags:
- Local News
- Newsletter