Women's Committee Report

"The SAG Women's National Committee teleconference call was held in January. Moderator Ellen Wacher assisted in the discussion of the committee's goals for the upcoming fiscal year. It was determined that all Branches be united in one cause rather than each Branch trying to do individual projects, i.e. the Ladies Day.

"Sylvia Kauders volunteered to work on a mission statement regarding an initiative to bring awareness to writers, directors and casting about creating more roles for women over 50. There was discussion about the fact that there are more than 78 million baby boomers across the country and this age range is undervalued and underutilized in the industry. Further, baby boomers want to see their demographic portrayed on TV and film. We need a movement to bring awareness, action and habit in writing more TV and film roles for this age group. Women are often awarded for performances in major roles, and it’s important to bring attention to the “old Hollywood” ways of writing, etc.

"The committee is considering requests of high profile women performers to be the “face” for this movement. In addition, they are researching the possibility of promoting the movement on the OWN network. The committee is also working on developing a Women Over 50 Film Festival in 2012 or 2013, with categories in film, documentary and commercials. I was asked to come up with a logo and I submitted my design ideas to the coordinator of Affirmative Action and Diversity in the New York Division for consideration. The committee’s ultimate goal is to bring the festival to OWN to achieve our goals for women in the industry."

This item was originally featured in the March 2012 local newsletter.