SAG-AFTRA Broadcast Steering Committee supports KPFK members in their negotiations with Pacifica

Dear Pacifica National Board Members:  

We the undersigned are SAG-AFTRA members of the Broadcast Steering Committee, a national committee of SAG-AFTRA radio and television broadcast professionals. Together, we meet as a collective three times a year and set the union’s national broadcaster priorities. We support, advocate for and organize our broadcast membership nationwide. 

SAG-AFTRA represents Pacifica employees at KPFK Los Angeles, WBAI New York and WPFW Washington DC. During our December 5, 2020 meeting, we discussed the recent KPFK contract negotiations in Los Angeles, CA.  We learned KPFK management presented proposals that included a 10% cut in pay, reductions to vacation, severance, childcare and holiday benefits and increased healthcare costs. 

As broadcasters we support our members who work at listener supported stations and provide progressive content to their communities.  While we understand Pacifica is facing financial hardships during these uncertain times, proposing significant reductions to our members, is concerning for a station that values working people. These cuts would have a significant impact on our members' working lives at a time when our members are delivering important information for their communities during this unprecedented pandemic.  

The SAG-AFTRA Broadcast Steering Committee supports the KPFK bargaining team efforts to secure a fair contract.  We stand together in solidarity with our sisters and brothers at KPFK and authorize the SAG-AFTRA bargaining team to take all necessary steps to reach a fair contract.  

Members of the SAG-AFTRA Broadcast Steering Committee