SAG-AFTRA, the labor union representing screen actors, will stage a large rally in Times Square on Tuesday morning. This event is anticipated to be the largest gathering in New York City since the strike began on July 14. Numerous celebrities, including Bryan Cranston, Steve Buscemi, Christian Slater, and many others, are scheduled to attend the rally, which is titled “Rock the City for a Fair Contract.”
SAG-AFTRA’s Demands
In a statement, the guild explained that their fight is centered around three key issues. Firstly, they are pushing for their members to receive a fair share of streaming revenues. Secondly, they are advocating for increased compensation that keeps up with inflation. Finally, they seek an agreement that ensures actors are given informed consent and fair pay when artificial intelligence (A.I.) creates digital replicas of their performances, voices, and likenesses.
Notable Figures in Attendance
In addition to the celebrities, several important figures from SAG-AFTRA will also be present at the rally. Duncan Crabtree-Ireland, the National Executive Director and chief negotiator for SAG-AFTRA, will attend. Joely Fisher, the Secretary-Treasurer, as well as Ezra Knight, the New York President, and Rebecca Damon, the Executive Director of New York Local, Labor Policy, and International Affairs, will also be in attendance.
Support from Labor Leaders
The rally will not only be attended by those directly involved with SAG-AFTRA but also by prominent state and local labor leaders. Lowell Peterson, the Executive Director of the Writers Guild of America East, will be present, along with Mario Cilento, the President of the New York State AFL-CIO, and Vincent Alvarez, the President of the NYC Central Labor Council.
The rally in Times Square serves as a powerful demonstration of unity and determination among SAG-AFTRA members and their supporters. By coming together and raising their voices, they aim to bring attention to their demands for a fair contract that reflects the value and contributions of actors in the entertainment industry. As the strike continues, the rally serves as a reminder that SAG-AFTRA is unwavering in its pursuit of a contract that meets the needs and aspirations of its members.