New York State of Mind

Since the passing of New York Local President Mike Hodge last September, we have gone through the process of grieving, renewal and the rededication of purpose to carry on his legacy. Although he’s no longer with us, Mike’s presence is still deeply felt.

As my friend, mentor and colleague, he taught me so much through his sage advice and jovial, empathetic demeanor. I will always carry those lessons with me, and I remain uplifted by the sterling example he set for me and so many others.

We both shared the belief that the New York Local can do more on every front. We can provide more services for members, create more work opportunities and get more involved in influencing legislation that affects our professional lives. But we can’t do any of it without you. Mike knew and I know the union is not a building at 1900 Broadway or 5757 Wilshire; it’s the people that give it life. I’m proud that New York members are some of the most active and engaged in the country, but we can’t stop there. There are so many ways to get involved, and all of them in one way or another help to build better lives for you or your fellow members.

With your help, the New York Local has been expanding programs and serving members better than ever. The Conservatory is a tremendous resource for performers looking to hone their craft and take their careers to the next level — and it just keeps getting better. We have started a series of seminars co-sponsored by MORE/MOVE and the local Background Advisory Committee to empower members and create opportunities for members doing background work. We have connected with casting directors to expand education, mentored young broadcasters, worked with the music community to provide more educational and inspirational programming, and released a new set of best practices for stunt coordinators to increase on-set safety. I could not be more proud of all the
member leaders who have worked tirelessly to make this happen.

Let’s keep that momentum going. Whether you’re a next generation performer, a senior or anything in between, I urge you to come, get involved in the wages and working conditions process that helps shape your contracts, attend an #AdsGoUnion meeting, take advantage of the educational opportunities offered by SAG-AFTRA and the SAG-AFTRA Foundation, or take part in any of the many other things your union has to offer.

In the coming months, we will need your help with the fight to reform New York’s right of publicity laws. Our state does not have post-mortem protections, meaning companies can profit off of the likenesses of our members after they pass away, using them to sell products, services or endorse political points of view. For most SAG-AFTRA members, whether we are performers or broadcasters, our images are our brand. We spend a lifetime building them and they should be ours to control. I hope you’ll take the time to follow this issue and keep an eye on your email in the coming months, as the union will be reaching out to you. If you don’t follow SAG-AFTRA on all its social media accounts, today is the day to follow, like, retweet and join the conversation.

No matter how you choose to participate, the union is stronger when you get involved. We can’t be our best without you.

Onward together,

Rebecca Damon
EVP and New York Local President