Social media was buzzing on Friday as Kerry Washington, alongside her Scandal co-stars Tony Goldwyn and Bellamy Young, took to Instagram to document their support for the strike initiated by the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA). The trio gathered to rally behind the cause, with picket signs in hand and a unified message for fairness and equity in the industry.
Spreading the Message
Washington, who portrayed the iconic Olivia Pope on the hit ABC drama for seven seasons, shared snapshots of the reunion, expressing her love for her fellow SAG-AFTRA members. In one of the images, she held a sign that boldly declared, “Guild vs. Evil.” Alongside the photos, Washington offered suggestions on various ways her fans could contribute to the cause. From spreading the message to volunteering and making donations to the Emergency Financial Assistance Program, Washington emphasized that every action counts in the fight for justice.
The trio also took to TikTok to showcase their activism, setting their volunteer efforts to the infectious beats of Montell Jordan’s “This Is How We Do It.” In the video, Goldwyn, who played President Fitz Grant on Scandal, explained the union’s unanimous decision to strike. He stated that their goal was to secure a fair deal for all workers in the entertainment industry, emphasizing the importance of fairness and equity among their ranks. Washington echoed Goldwyn’s sentiments, adding that their fight was also about preventing the replacement of human talent with computers, a concern shared by many in the industry.
Marching Towards Change
Before their reunion, Bellamy Young, a proud SAG-AFTRA Union member since 1992, shared photos of herself and Goldwyn as they marched through the bustling streets of Times Square in New York City. Young expressed gratitude for the support and protection provided by the union throughout her career. She made it clear that she was prepared to stand vigilant, ensuring that these essential safeguards continue to strengthen the industry as it evolves into new territory.
A Message of Solidarity
The gathering of Washington, Goldwyn, and Young serves as a powerful reminder of the unity within the entertainment industry. As they stood side by side, their picket signs held high for all to see, their actions spoke volumes. By lending their voices to the cause, they inspire others to join the fight for fair treatment and just compensation. The SAG-AFTRA strike is a testament to the unwavering dedication of these individuals and countless others who refuse to accept anything less than an industry that values and respects its workers.
The actions of Kerry Washington, Tony Goldwyn, and Bellamy Young highlight the significance of collective action in creating meaningful change. Their participation in the SAG-AFTRA strike reinforces the importance of standing up for fairness, equity, and the preservation of quality talent in the entertainment industry. The impact of their advocacy extends beyond the picket lines, reaching the hearts and minds of fans and fellow industry professionals alike. Together, they stress the need for unity in the fight for a better future, signaling a pivotal moment in the ongoing struggle for justice in the world of entertainment.