A Message From the L.A. Local President

Thanksgiving and the holidays are upon us, and change is in the air. Change doesn’t necessarily have to be a bad thing. It is a chance to purify, grow, learn new ways of evolving consciousness, and most importantly, TRUST to strengthen you for these times of change.

As I reflect on these past 11 months, we have been through A LOT!  

Collectively, personally and globally, we got through a massive strike, and instead of being met with work, some of us were met with a contraction within our industry. Not just for our performers, but across the spectrum affecting writers, directors, casting, crew and the list goes on. To this day, SAG-AFTRA voice and movement performers who work in video games remain on strike, fighting for a deal that offers the same type of guardrails on the use of A.I. that we fought for last year, including consent, compensation and transparency. 

As if this wasn’t enough, we are reminded daily on our phones and airwaves of war, division and derisiveness globally, and of an election that was unprecedented in every way. 

How do we unplug from the onslaught of fear and negativity to maintain our mental health and grace during these challenging times?

For me personally, I am focusing on my loved ones — family, friends, animal friends and NATURE — amidst my work as an actor, creator, meditator and activist for my community, which includes you as a SAG-AFTRA local member. Most importantly, I have chosen LOVE and KINDNESS as the operative words for the coming year.

On a different note, I‘d like to share some of our accomplishments in the L.A. Local as well as some valuable resources and benefits available to all of you as SAG-AFTRA members. 

This past year, we held over 150 programming events, mixers, panels and member orientations that engaged all categories of our membership. 

Part of this was bringing back the highly anticipated Conservatory Intensive, formerly Summer Intensive, after a five-year hiatus. For the first time, the Intensive was in our “home” at SAG-AFTRA Plaza. It was a weekend full of learning, hands-on practice and fun for our members.  

In addition, this past fall, for the first time since COVID, your Los Angeles Local Board began meeting in person “at home” in the James Cagney Boardroom. We look forward to welcoming in-person observers at our board meetings in the future. Be sure to check your emails for the call to observe.

I would be remiss to mention the things we have been able to achieve this year without acknowledging the support organizations we are so lucky to have as partners. 

Both the SAG-AFTRA Foundation and the Entertainment Community Fund are dedicated to providing programming that promotes our overall well-being, including career sustainability, social services, mental health support and financial assistance during these challenging times. 

Here is a curated list of local and national government resources, as well as nonprofit organizations willing to help our members, located on our Local Resources page. 

Finally, don’t forget to use your member perks through our deals and discounts as you celebrate with your loved ones during the holiday season. 

I know that this time of year can bring about various emotions, so please reach out and use the resources available to you. Know that our L.A. Local has an amazing staff team supporting you, so, if needed, do not hesitate to reach out to them at la@sagaftra.org. 

As the winter solstice and the darkest day of the year approaches, please take care and nurture yourselves. Take this time as a chance to renew and recalibrate as the days grow longer to enlighten every day. We look forward to welcoming you back with more programming and support in the new year. 

Wishing you a happy, healthy, merry, merry holiday season, with much love and light …

… and all good things. 

Jodi Long
Los Angeles Local President