Unions play a very important role, not only in educating the members but also educating elected officials about the unique needs of people in different industries. I think that’s the information we need to put to work in crafting our federal response to make sure that everyone is provided for. This is obviously going to be hugely disruptive. It already is, and for a sustained period of time, so that flow of information in both directions is really important.
Adam Schiff
U.S. Representative
In this episode of the SAG-AFTRA podcast, we discuss the unique needs faced by entertainment industry workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. Hosts SAG-AFTRA President Gabrielle Carteris and National Executive Director David White are joined by Rep. Adam Schiff of California’s 28th Congressional District. He is currently in his 10th term.
Schiff, Carteris and White also discuss trusted sources of information pertaining to COVID-19 and how unions and their members can continue to educate elected officials about the various needs faced by the entertainment industry so that proper emergency relief legislation can be drafted.
During these uncertain times, the variety of information about COVID-19 may be overwhelming. Carteris asked Schiff what sources he would recommend to the public. “I would turn to trusted sources like the CDC and your local county health department webpage. The combination of those two things would give you good information on what is being recommended by the best professionals nationally and what is recommended in your local area, because this virus is hitting localities in different ways.
“In terms of the legislative process, I would encourage people to go to the congressional website for their member of Congress. We post information not only about health issues but also the relief packages Congress has passed. It’s also a good place to provide input or to get information on what Congress is working on right now,” he said.
SAG-AFTRA, in collaboration with fellow media unions, is calling on city, state and federal governments to put forward emergency relief packages for union entertainment workers. We are asking members to email their senators and representative and urge them to act now.
To listen to other episodes, click here. Be sure to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Overcast, Pocket Casts or TuneIn.
**The views expressed by guests are their own and not that of SAG-AFTRA. Any mention of products or services does not imply SAG-AFTRA’s endorsement.
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