Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/1186820
M ore than 400 delegates from across the country descended upon the Beverly Hilton in Los Angeles Oct. 10–13 for SAG-AFTRA's fourth biennial national convention. This year, more delegates than ever — including more first-time delegates — came together to do union business. Attendees had a packed agenda, considering a record number of resolutions and a constitutional amendment, electing national vice presidents and hearing reports from the union's top officers. The convention provided a venue for members from all over the nation to engage with each other and the union's leadership in a healthy and dynamic exchange of ideas. In addition, workshops and panels offered educational experiences for attendees, on subjects ranging from organizing to social media. Among the highlights of the biennial gathering was a keynote discussion, a resolution in support of a free press and the awarding of gold membership cards to some of the union's most dedicated members and staff. "Our union is achieving truly amazing things — stronger contracts, organizing victories, safety protocols — real progress on behalf of our members," said President Gabrielle Carteris in her address. "We have done work around safety on the set, sexual harassment, stunt coordinator process guidelines and contract enforcement. All these things come with incredible effort and they take great courage. What we have achieved is possible only because we have had, and will continue to have, our eyes on the prize. I'm looking forward to the future and to creating a stronger union together." On the opening day of the convention, Carteris gaveled the convention to order and asked veteran delegates to lead the Pledge of Allegiance. Later, Oscar-nominated producer Jason Blum (BlacKkKlansman, Get Out, Whiplash) and The Wall Street Journal's West Coast bureau chief for U.S. news, Ben Fritz, discussed how Blum has found success making low-budget movies that get released by big studios. Blum also talked about how he ensures actors are paid properly for their work. "If a movie hits 50 million dollars, [actors] get $50,000; if it hits 60 million dollars, [actors] get $100,000," said Blum. "And when SAG-AFTRA National Executive Director David White onstage during his presentation. AMY TIERNEY X2