We’re writing to share a resolution passed by the SAG-AFTRA National Board at its meeting this past Saturday, March 15.
Acknowledging the crucial role of diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility in the authentic portrayal of the American Scene, SAG-AFTRA’s National Board unanimously reaffirmed the union’s more than half-century commitment to these principles.
In fact, SAG-AFTRA’s collective bargaining agreements have included provisions requiring the industry to reflect the diversity of the American Scene in casting and employment practices for more than 60 years.
The resolution, which was recommended and championed by the SAG-AFTRA Diversity Advisory Committee, asserts that “the accurate and authentic portrayal of the American Scene is essential to the integrity and credibility of the entertainment and media industry” and acknowledges that “systemic barriers to full and fair inclusion, equal employment opportunity, and accessibility persist, requiring continued vigilance and advocacy to ensure that progress is maintained and accelerated.”
Our strength is to influence Americans by example — to always raise the bar on the dream of “... one nation, indivisible, with liberty and justice for ALL.” And to hold to that promise of equity, diversity, accessibility and inclusion both on screens and behind the scenes. We take seriously our ability and commitment to normalize the great American Scene.
For decades, SAG-AFTRA has advocated for equal employment opportunity within the entertainment and media industry, including meaningful representation of historically underrepresented communities and holding employers accountable to their commitments. That advocacy continues unabated, and is as important now as it has ever been.
We will be engaging directly with employers to reaffirm their obligations under the various SAG-AFTRA contracts and that they remain in full compliance with those commitments.
Thank you for your dedication and commitment to your union and fellow members. We rise together.
In unity,
Fran Drescher
President
Duncan Crabtree-Ireland
National Executive Director & Chief Negotiator
About SAG-AFTRA
SAG-AFTRA represents approximately 160,000 actors, announcers, broadcast journalists, dancers, DJs, news writers, news editors, program hosts, puppeteers, recording artists, singers, stunt performers, voiceover artists and other entertainment and media professionals. SAG-AFTRA members are the faces and voices that entertain and inform America and the world. A proud affiliate of the AFL-CIO, SAG-AFTRA has national offices in Los Angeles and New York and local offices nationwide representing members working together to secure the strongest protections for entertainment and media artists into the 21st century and beyond. Visit SAG-AFTRA online at SAGAFTRA.org.