The International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) has given the green light to provide $2 million in financial relief to members facing economic hardships during the ongoing Hollywood strikes.
The unanimous approval from the crew union’s general executive board paves the way for the disbursement of funds to well-established charitable organizations within the industry. Beneficiaries of these contributions include esteemed entities such as the Motion Picture & Television Fund, The Entertainment Community Fund, and the Actors Fund of Canada.
Representing over 168,000 professionals, including technicians, artisans, and craftspersons in the entertainment sector, IATSE had earlier extended a financial lifeline of $2 million to aid members in June. This decision was spurred by the contract negotiation breakdown between the Writers Guild of America and studios and streamers, leading to picket lines. The demand for financial assistance soared following the SAG-AFTRA strike in July, triggered by the deadlock in negotiations with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers, representing various studios.
IATSE International President Matthew D. Loeb emphasized, “The substantial impact of these work stoppages on our membership cannot be overstated. While these times are undeniably challenging, our members have consistently expressed their understanding of the necessity of this struggle. Their united backing for fellow Actors and Writers ensures they will receive equivalent support as we resume negotiations at the bargaining table ourselves.
The recent endorsement of these funds elevates the total allocation intended to aid members affected by these labor interruptions to an aggregate of $4 million.
Since the commencement of the writers’ initial strike, numerous charitable foundations and agencies have stepped forward to assist striking writers and actors. In a collaborative effort, IATSE partnered with the L.A. Food Bank and L.A. County Federation of Labor last month to organize a food drive, demonstrating their commitment to supporting workers during this challenging period.
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