United in the Big Easy

On picket lines across the nation, SAG-AFTRA members remain steadfast in their demand for a fair contract and committed to not backing down until they get one. That tenacity was on display Aug. 24, as New Orleans members gathered for a lively rally.

This was a day when there were no categories; just New Orleans Local members doing what we do best — banding together — shining in all our uniqueness, despite the adversity and struggles that the strike presents.
 
Over 150 people showed up in 100-degree humid weather outside of Congo Square near the French Quarter, along with news station reporters, city officials, local celebrities, industry supporters, and union siblings from WGA, IATSE, Teamsters, AFM, Basic Crafts, and more. 
 
The grit and determination of our local, that is so emblematic of our city, came across in all the people who took the stage to protest and inform the crowd. 
 
Local President Jim Gleason spoke to why we are striking in the first place, and how the 1960 historical strike of WGA and SAG resulted in present-day residuals. Our two emcees, Tony Frederick and Samantha Beaulieu, captivated and motivated the audience and speakers to keep the event fun and moving. Director of Locals Administration Lisha Brock praised members for their solidarity. 

Labor leaders spoke up in support of their union family. Louisiana AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer Matt Wood promised to provide whatever support needed. IATSE Local 478 Business Agent Cory Parker expressed support for our strike and asked for our union’s support when they negotiate their contract next year. AFM Local 174-496 President “Deacon” John Moore spoke passionately and ended with his signature song. 
 
Elected officials Royce Duplessis, Helena Moreno, and Wesley Bishop on behalf of Oliver Thomas all gave rousing talks in support of labor and our cause.
 
Casting directors, independent producers, pre-members, and other industry professionals were present and unified. Water, donuts and signs were shared, and greetings were exchanged. Strangers became acquaintances and acquaintances had a chance to see each other.
 
Member leaders Lance Nichols, Laura Cayouette, Mike Yahn and Diana Boylston worked with staff to produce the event. This workgroup along with numerous other members made this rally possible!  
 
Yahn set up a stage, electricity and shade tent with the help of Sean Braud, Jeff Brockton, Max Patrucco, Ned Yousef and Preston Schrag. Photography and video were provided by Hunter Baxley and Yahn. Connor Turley provided the staging. Nicholas X. Parsons provided amplification so attendees could hear the speeches and music. Pauline Boudreax was our event medic, which thankfully was not needed.

Other members helped load ice chests of water, make signs, organize T-shirts, handout signs and shirts, and check attendees in, including Kate Adair, Katelyn Borgen, Michael Collier, Adam Horwitz, Ashley Hudson, Jeff Pope, David Shiflett, Mary Stieffel, Charlie Talbert, Krystal Tomlin and Eileen Weisinger
 
Why did we do this? Because the true essence of a union is to stand together for the benefit of all, from the greatest to the least. We are one.

That message rang out in many ways on that special day from local members. From Olga Wilhelmine leading chants to Boylston leading solidarity songs, to war stories shared from Ritchie Montgomery, Luke Hawx, Billy Slaughter and Yousef. All demonstrated the detriment of accepting a contract with diminishing returns and the need for unity. Laura Cayouette ended with the charge, “Do NOT let them scare you.”
 
THIS is a day we will not forget. The union will continue, things will be BETTER than they were before. Let’s all ensure that the camaraderie and unity that our members have embraced remains and grows stronger with each day. 
 
May we remember this time. May we remember this feeling. When the fight is over, may we still be united as we are today.

Photo: SAG-AFTRA members and supporters rally on Aug. 24 in New Orleans. Photo by Mike Yahn.