Dear Member,
This is an email I implore you to read in its entirety.
As you’ve likely heard, SAG-AFTRA is taking a bold step: your National Board unanimously decided to send a strike authorization vote to members ahead of negotiations with the AMPTP — the group who represents our employers, major studios, streamers and production companies in the television, streaming and theatrical industries.
I’m personally asking you to vote ‘Yes’ on the strike authorization referendum. While a ‘Yes’ vote won’t initiate a strike, it will give our negotiators extra leverage at the bargaining table to get the best possible deal. In the event the National Board should decide that a strike is necessary, no work stoppage would occur before our contract expires on June 30, 2023.
The industry has changed dramatically, and we need a contract that protects you from:
- Erosion of income and benefit plan contributions due to inflation and the streaming ecosystem
- Reduced residuals
- Fast-evolving threats of generative AI
- Unregulated and burdensome self-taped auditions
All the information you need to vote and meeting details can be found here.
A postcard with a unique pin was mailed to you on May 18 with instructions on how to vote online. I have already received mine and voted a resounding "YES." The deadline to vote is June 5 at 5 p.m. PT. If you haven’t received your postcard, you can still vote by using the “Find My Pin” function at vote.ivsballot.com/sagaftra2023.
Please spread the word on your social media platforms by reminding members to vote YES and using the hashtag #SAGAFTRAstrong. Click here for graphics and sample posts. And be sure to follow SAG-AFTRA on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook for all the latest updates.
I’m heartened by the solidarity I’ve already seen from members when the news of this action was announced. Ensuring our negotiators have the leverage they need has never been more important — now is the time to demonstrate our unity.
In Unity,
Jim Gleason
New Orleans Local President
If you have already cast your ballot, thank you for voting!