SAG-AFTRA Discusses the History of Labor in Pop Culture

SAG-AFTRA Senior Deputy General Counsel Sarah Fowler was a presenter and keynote speaker at the California Western Law Review & International Law Journal’s Spring Symposium in San Diego, California, on March 28, 2025. Its theme was “How Labor & Employment Laws Work in Today’s Global Economy.”

Her lecture, Labor Law & Pop Culture, was an in-depth look into the history of labor law and its presence in popular entertainment and media, including films, television and other mediums from the early 20th century to the present day. In addition to highlighting key moments of the labor movement and tie-ins to figures such as Superman and Jane Fonda, Fowler showed examples of the movement’s symbiotic relationship with contemporary pop culture.

“I think the reason why labor is having a renaissance and interest with younger generations is because of pop culture,” said Fowler.

A Q&A followed the presentation.

Fowler gave a similarly themed presentation at the American Bar Association’s 18th Annual Labor and Employment Law Conference in New York on Nov. 15, 2024.

The annual symposium highlights the intersection of national policies and international labor standards, and addresses challenges impacting workers, businesses and policymakers nationally and internationally.

Photo: SAG-AFTRA Senior Deputy General Counsel Sarah Fowler presents “Labor Law & Pop Culture” at the “California Western Law Review” & “International Law Journal” Spring Symposium on March 28, 2025. Photo by Casey Manuel.