SAG-AFTRA’s strike has now entered its 46th day, and the negotiating committee has expressed their readiness to return to the bargaining table for a fair deal. However, it seems like the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) is unwilling to make the necessary concessions that would lead to a resolution. This situation is reminiscent of the recent Writers Guild of America (WGA) negotiations, where the AMPTP also showed reluctance to reach a satisfactory agreement.
Awaiting Contact from the AMPTP
Despite SAG-AFTRA’s eagerness to resume negotiations, they have yet to receive any contact from the AMPTP. Duncan Crabtree-Ireland, the national executive director and chief negotiator of SAG-AFTRA, expressed their willingness to continue bargaining with the AMPTP and urged them to come back to the table. However, the lack of communication from the AMPTP has hindered any progress.
The AMPTP’s attention has primarily been on reaching a deal with the WGA, which has been on strike for 119 days. Although some progress was made during the WGA’s last bargaining session, it was insufficient to bring an end to their strike. The AMPTP’s prioritization of the WGA negotiations has further delayed talks with SAG-AFTRA.
SAG-AFTRA’s Interim Agreements
To mitigate the effects of the strike on the industry, SAG-AFTRA has been promoting their interim agreements. These agreements allow independent film and television projects to proceed as long as they are not covered by the WGA and agree to abide by future terms and conditions negotiated with the AMPTP. SAG-AFTRA believes that these agreements are progressing well and encourages their members to participate in projects under these agreements.
The Importance of Solidarity
The negotiating committee of SAG-AFTRA emphasizes the importance of solidarity among its members. They address the negative comments some members have received for participating in projects with interim agreements, particularly when it comes time to promote their work. Such remarks, whether coming from within or outside the organization, not only harm individual performers but also play into the hands of the AMPTP by dividing the membership. The committee urges members to support their fellow performers and lift them up by celebrating and promoting the projects made under the interim agreements.
The strategy of employing interim agreements has effectively halted the large studios and streamers, which are the main targets of the strike. By supporting independent projects under these agreements, the negotiating committee believes that the AMPTP’s power weakens. They emphasize that the AMPTP executives can witness the success of these independent projects while their own productions remain stalled due to their corporate greed and disrespect.
The negotiating committee recognizes the potential benefits of acquiring distribution rights for projects made under the interim agreements. They view a slate of projects with such agreements as a powerful demonstration of their bargaining power. By continuing to support and create projects under these agreements, SAG-AFTRA members contribute to their collective strength and the eventual realization of a satisfactory deal.
SAG-AFTRA’s ongoing strike has faced numerous challenges, primarily due to the AMPTP’s unwillingness to make concessions. While the negotiation process has stalled, SAG-AFTRA’s focus on promoting and supporting projects under their interim agreements showcases their determination and resilience. The solidarity and support of their members remain crucial in their pursuit of a fair deal that benefits all actors within the industry.