Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1157135
44 SAG-AFTRA | Summer 2019 | sagaftra.org 44 SAG-AFTRA | Summer 2019 | sagaftra.org THE 2019 CONVENTION A s they do every two years, SAG-AFTRA's duly elected delegates and officers join staff in Los Angeles for the union's convention. Taking place at The Beverly Hilton from Oct. 10–13, the convention gives leadership the opportunity to review recent successes, vote for top officers and set the union's priorities — and there might even be some dancing again. This year's theme is "#unconventional," since SAG-AFTRA is not your usual union. A lot of business and fun is going to be packed into the convention's four days, starting with the election of the executive vice president and national vice presidents. The other main order of business is the consideration of resolutions and constitutional amendments that help the union set its priorities. Voting on all these candidates and issues on behalf of the membership will be the delegates, who are chosen in one of two ways: The president, secretary-treasurer and National Board members by virtue of election to those positions also serve as delegates, while the remaining positions are elected at the local level. Included among the positions are representatives of the various member categories, such as actors/performers, broadcasters, dancers, recording artists, singers and stunt performers. Over the course of the convention, the president, executive vice president, secretary-treasurer, national executive director and subject-matter experts will present reports recapping the union's successes and challenges over the last two years, where it's headed and the landscape of the rapidly changing industry. Attendees should also make time in their busy schedules to stop by the resource fair and expo. It will feature booths and tables from partner organizations that offer a variety of products and services to SAG-AFTRA members. The convention's Friday evening parties have become legendary, and this year's gala will be another night to remember. Not only does it present an opportunity to unwind from the day's business, but it also features the presentation of some important awards. First, the American Scene Awards celebrate diversity and inclusion in entertainment, and is a chance to cheer on those who are pushing boundaries in music, news and entertainment. Next, the George Heller Memorial Awards gold cards honorees are