A Message From Twin Cities Local President Casey E. Lewis

These are trying times. I am not going to attempt to offer any great words of wisdom. We can look to others with the experience and wisdom for that.

What I do see in the natural disasters and drastic changes introduced to U.S. citizens, allies, and those around the world who have come to depend on our country’s help is that if ever there was a time for broadcast journalism to succeed, it is now. The light must be shown. The truth must be told. Our sisters and brothers in that field are in my thoughts every day, many times throughout the day.

A recommendation I see is to not seclude yourself, to instead continue to connect in person and online with others. I hope everyone is able to, at times, surround themselves with others, and especially those who are like-minded, for conversation, support and a sense of belonging. In a recent meeting with Twin Cities Local officers and our National Board member, we discussed creating opportunities to bring members together, not only for professional development purposes, which are a goal and are important, but to continue to build community and solidarity among Twin Cities Local members. Please keep an eye out for these local opportunities as we schedule them.

One event on the calendar is our annual SAG Awards viewing party, which the SAG Awards Committee has been working on for a few months. It is scheduled for Sunday, Feb. 23, from 6 to 9 p.m., at Uptown VFW. It seems odd with so much uncertainty in our country and the world for people to come together and bestow statues on a few. As Local president, I have felt that our local viewing parties were a chance for ALL members to come together, not to watch a bunch of performers congratulate one another, but for us — performers and broadcasters — to come together as a community to connect over food, drink and conversation. I don’t think there is a more important time for community-building than now. Regarding awards ceremonies, I also feel if we start removing the normal things from our lives, from our industries, the abnormal occurrences win. They become normal if we let them.

Click here for details and to make your reservation for the Twin Cities Local SAG Awards Viewing Party. RSVPs are required. We won’t be handing out awards, but everyone will get tacos! Please come if you’re able. I hope to see you there.

In solidarity,

Casey E. Lewis

Twin Cities Local President