SAG-AFTRA will be holding a virtual special convention on June 22 and 23. The purpose of the special convention is to review outstanding resolutions from the 2023 convention, due to the early adjournment, when the AMPTP abruptly agreed to return to the bargaining table to negotiate the TV/ Theatrical Contracts on the 100th day of the strike. Although it was great news and ultimately led to a breakthrough contract, it also meant that some of the union business that’s conducted at the convention would have to wait.
At the Oct. 21 convention gathering, themed “Future Forward – Union Power,” the union’s top officers were elected and delegates had the opportunity to hear reports from leadership. When delegates return for the special convention in June, much of the time will be devoted to debating and voting on member-submitted resolutions, which is one way the union sets its priorities.
There will also be time set aside for the American Scene Awards, which recognizes producers that create music, news and entertainment that intelligently and progressively employ the talents of people of color, people with disabilities, LGBTQ+, women, seniors, and other misrepresented or underrepresented groups.
Additionally, there will be a ceremony honoring members and staff who have made exceptional contributions to the union. They will join the elite ranks of those who have received the George Heller Memorial Award, represented by a gold membership card. So, in the end, the convention’s theme “Future Forward” was oddly prescient, as some of the business ended up being pushed forward, into the future. And the future will be here in June — so stay tuned to find out which resolutions get passed and who is honored.
This item originally featured in the SAG-AFTRA spring 2024 magazine issue.