Notes From the National Board Member

Sisters and Brothers, can you believe a year has gone by since our lives were turned upside down by COVID-19? A year of businesses closing, of schools shuttered, remote employment and job loss. In our profession, a year of flatlined work opportunities. And a year of terrible illness and tragic loss. These are the times that try folks’ souls.

Oregon has had its share of challenges, but now, with the disease rates decreasing and our counties moving (slowly!) from extreme to high, moderate and lower risk, little by little, we are on the mend.

What must we do to truly recover from this yearlong — and more, when all is said and done — challenge? I think we tend to the trinity each of us stewards: body, mind, spirit. I know that, contrary to any plans I had, I did not train for a marathon in my enforced solitude … I cooked! So, I’m returning to my walking practice to wake up my physical self. I’ve been reading and doing some writing, and that’s helped keep my mind active, but I’m starving for more creativity — I can’t wait to get back to storytelling that’s not on Zoom! And spirit? For me, that means, when it’s safe, expanding my circle outwards again. Calling the folks I’ve missed. Taking a walk with a friend, playing a round of dominoes with others. And, when I can, hugging. Everyone. Including the produce guy. Simple things. Things I have control over. I can’t hurry this virus’ decline. I can’t rebuild Portland’s economy or clean up its streets. But I can tend to my trinity in small and simple ways. And that’s enough.

We hope you have felt seen and heard throughout this difficult time, that you have been able to connect to union resources, and that you have been able to take advantage of opportunities to interact with each other and just to know that someone is listening. Your staff is here for the same reason. There are exciting plans for the year ahead, as we emerge back into the sunshine. In the coming weeks and months, there will be more informational, networking and organizing opportunities that will continue to ensure our local members are the best-trained and most professional in the country, as the union seeks new areas of work and new ways to work for you. Spring will come, with it, new life for us all.

We’ve still got a ways to go, so until we’re able to see one another in person, please reach out to us if you need anything. Take care of your trinity. And get ready for a huge hug the first time I see you in person. Thanks for hanging in there, sisters and brothers.

You got this.

— By Mary McDonald-Lewis, SAG-AFTRA National Board Member