A Message From Your National Board Member

Greetings Members of the Atlanta Local! 

Normally, at this time of year, I would be writing all of you to say “Jingle jangle jingle ... it’s time to mix and mingle,” and ask for donations to help pull off another great holiday party. Sadly, we will not be able to gather again this year either. But I want to start off my report by wishing each and every one of you a very happy holiday season filled with family, friends and great memories.

As we head into what we hope will be another great year of production opportunity, I wanted to remind you of some important dates and deadlines. The current SAG-AFTRA TV/Theatrical Contract expires June 30, 2023. It’s important to make your voice heard before the negotiations begin by participating in the wages and working conditions (W&W) process. To do that, you must be a paid-up member. Please visit sagaftra.org/billing-portal for details on any outstanding amounts owed and to pay your dues online. 

I encourage all members who are eligible to attend one of the upcoming national W&W meetings. There are meetings specific to various member categories, but attending meetings outside of your specific category is a great way to understand the bigger picture and how specific parts of the contract affect members in other categories. There is a national dancers caucus on Jan. 5, caucus meeting on Jan 10 and a diversity caucus on Jan. 12, just to name a few. For a complete schedule and updates as additional meetings are announced, visit sagaftra.org/2023ww.

Lastly, as SAG-AFTRA continues to tighten its belt like the rest of the country, please consider doing your part to reduce expenses by going green. If you are still getting those residual checks that often cost the union more money to process than the amount of the check, please sign up for direct deposit. You’ll get the payment quicker and free up union resources. Also, once you log in at sagaftra.org, you can click “Go Green” and opt out of receiving the printed magazine or a physical membership card twice a year. The SAG-AFTRA app has your digital membership card and QR code for access to everything you need. You can also opt out of receiving DVD screeners during the SAG Awards voting period. I can almost hear the laughter at that one! But for the many members that prefer digital content, it is an option.

That’s it for now. Stay safe and enjoy the holidays!

Debra Nelson
National Board Member