The Power of Solidarity
As the lights of Hollywood faded behind me, I embarked on an extraordinary journey to the captivating islands of Hawaii. My purpose was two-fold. I represented the dedicated Assistant Film Editors as a delegate in the Young Worker's Committee at the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) District 2 Convention, a yearly gathering of film industry professionals united under the IATSE banner. My second purpose was personal, a spiritual quest to reconnect with my inner self in the land of Aloha.
My home for the duration of the convention was a charming resort on Waikiki Beach, where I embraced the Aloha spirit from day one. I began my mornings with meditative dips in the healing waters of Waikiki, grounding myself before stepping into a day of negotiations, resolutions, and essential discussions for the welfare of our industry.
The IATSE District 2 Convention is an annual gathering that fosters unity among film professionals, acting as a powerful amplifier for the collective voice of IATSE members from Nevada, California, Arizona, and Hawaii. I had the privilege of being among the delegates from the Motion Picture Editors Guild (MPEG700), a testament to our commitment to creating an equitable, inclusive, and prosperous film industry.
Among the significant developments during the convention was the announcement by Matt Loeb, the International President of IATSE, of allocating an additional $2 million to aid those affected by the strike, reflecting the shared sense of solidarity at the heart of IATSE.
One of the critical negotiation points was "Breaking Pattern" - a move to negotiate higher rates to address inflation. As commented on by Matt Loeb, this negotiation would deviate from the current 3%/3%/3% rate increase, instead, gaming for 6%/4%/4%. While this represents progress, it still feels far short of what would be considered a fair deal given the living wage in Los Angeles. Alas, it was a step towards greater economic stability for all our members, proof of our commitment to ensuring a fair and sustainable industry for all.
Saturday afternoon arrived with a wave of anticipation as we voted on several resolutions. Commitments that would significantly affect the lives of over 170,000 IATSE members. One Resolution was to reaffirm solidarity for all entertainment industry guilds and unions in their fight for fair contracts. This resolution echoed the spirit of our discussion on "Breaking Pattern" and underlined our collective commitment to fair wages.
Saturday afternoon arrived with a wave of anticipation as we voted on several resolutions. Commitments that would significantly affect the lives of over 170,000 IATSE members. One Resolution was to reaffirm solidarity for all entertainment industry guilds and unions in their fight for fair contracts. This resolution echoed the spirit of our discussion on "Breaking Pattern" and underlined our collective commitment to fair wages.
Additionally, we approved a resolution to provide adequate time, access, and locations for the purpose of pumping breast milk creating an inclusive and supportive environment for working mothers within our industry. We also declared support for LGBTQIA+ policies and medical treatments and to not endorse political candidates who oppose LGBTQIA+ rights. Our last resolution for the day was the adoption of comprehensive fertility and adoption benefits for IATSE members to ensure they have access to the support they need to create and care for their families. All reflecting our unwavering commitment to diversity, equality, and the well-being of our members.
Sunday evening, as the final curtain fell on the official proceedings of the IATSE District 2 Convention, the energy and spirit of solidarity transitioned from the negotiation floor to a more social setting. We mingled in fellowship with our sister locals within the Hollywood bargaining group. The evening came alive with a traditional Luau celebration, a heartwarming display of the local culture set against the backdrop of the stunning Waikiki Beach.
This evening was not just about reveling the spirit of "aloha and mahalo." Deeper conversations were brewing amid the merriment, the indulgence in local cuisine, and the sips of themed cocktails. We shared ideas, hopes, and expectations for next year's negotiations for the IATSE Basic Agreement, a crucial agreement that impacts approximately 45,000 members working in film and television.
As I reflected on the convention and the Luau, I couldn't help but marvel at the power of unity and the spirit of kinship that bound us all. Each moment, each conversation, and each resolution was a stepping stone towards a fairer, more inclusive, and prosperous future for all members of our industry. This convention, our collective efforts, and the spirit of solidarity reminded us of the immense power we wield when we stand together. As the echoes of the Luau lingered, I looked forward to the road ahead, filled with the indomitable spirit of IATSE.
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1 comment
What a great blog! it was so interesting and you went in just the right amount of detail about what went on while you were there. It is obvious that you are passionate about what you would like to see happen in the near future for the people you work with in the editing world! It looks like you had fun too as well.
Sharon Gunter
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