SAG-AFTRA Calls for Member Volunteers as Union Preps for Potential Film/TV Strike
The Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) is calling for its members to volunteer in the event of a strike. The union is preparing for a potential work stoppage after its current contract with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) expires on July 12.
In a message sent to members on Thursday, SAG-AFTRA asked for volunteers to picket, make signs, phone bank, lead chants, and be strike captains. The union said it needs as many volunteers as possible to be effective during a strike.
The union also asked members to rank their preferences for particular picketing locations in Los Angeles and New York. The association is considering striking at major studios and production companies, including Amazon/Culver Studios, CBS Radford, CBS Television City, Disney, Fox, Netflix, Paramount, Sony, Universal, and Warner Bros.
SAG-AFTRA and the AMPTP have negotiated a new contract for months, but the two sides have yet to agree. The union has said it is prepared to strike to get a fair contract if necessary.
The AMPTP has said it is committed to reaching a deal with SAG-AFTRA, but it has also said it will not agree to a contract that is not fair to the companies it represents.
A strike by SAG-AFTRA would significantly impact the film and television industry. It would likely lead to the cancellation or delay of many productions. It would also harm the economy, as the film and television industry is a significant employer in Los Angeles and New York.
SAG-AFTRA and the AMPTP are expected to continue negotiating in the coming days. It is still being determined if they can reach an agreement before the contract expires on July 12.
