SAG-AFTRA Attends Havana Film Festival

A delegation of SAG-AFTRA elected leadership and executives connected with film enthusiasts and industry professionals at the Havana Film Festival in December, discussing challenges that are common to us all, regardless of nationality. The union’s participation, at the invitation of festival organizers, marked the third time since 2016 that SAG-AFTRA has represented the United States at the Cuban venue.

SAG-AFTRA’s delegation led three panels, which were on the topics of sexual harassment in the entertainment industry, the future of media and the impact of emerging technologies, and royalties and residuals. The union also co-hosted a reception in Old Havana in celebration of the Latin American film industry and performers. “It was a powerful and moving experience to be able to lead and be a part of conversations with performers and filmmakers from Cuba and all over Latin America regarding the industry, technology and performer safety, particularly around our work to fght sexual harassment. With the increasing globalization of our industry, it is imperative that we
continue to strengthen our international relationships,” said SAG-AFTRA President Gabrielle Carteris.

“SAG-AFTRA recognizes the marked growth of Spanish-language production and U.S.-Latin American co-productions, making it more important than ever for us to maintain strong relationships with performers throughout Latin America, including Cuba. Whether talking about new technology or residuals and royalties, these dialogues yield meaningful advances in understanding and collaboration in the interests of our members,” said SAG-AFTRA National Executive Director David White.

“It means a lot to us in Cuba, and also to our Latin American colleagues, to be able to count on the support and the experience of the American union for television and film performers. For too long our two countries were divided by what seemed to be an unsolvable conflict, but now we must work together for the beneft of both our people, and it’s been proven that it is essential we do so,” said Ivan Giroud, president of the Havana Film Festival.

The 40th International Festival of New Latin American Cinema was held in Havana, Cuba, from Dec. 6–16, 2018. The festival includes a showcase of contemporary world cinema, industry sector initiatives, and meetings and seminars on issues of cultural interest, especially cinema.