Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1277606
12 • THE ARTISAN SUMMER 2020 I can't even begin to fathom where we are now, and yet, here we are. I also realize we are still in a place of unknown and fear for our future. All live stage productions that include our members working in Theater, Pink Contract (touring Broadway shows) Ballet, Opera and Theme Park have been canceled until further notice. Some have canceled out as far as spring 2021. Randy Sayer and I have been working individually with each employer of our state to discuss their future productions. The Coalition of Resort Labor Unions (CRLU) held our first Disney Caravan for Safety protest on June 27. Two hundred-plus cars drove around Disneyland for two hours to highlight our demand that Disney provide COVID-19 testing for its cast members when they return to work. Disneyworld in Florida and Disneyland Resort here in Anaheim had planned to reopen in mid-July, both locations wanted to do so without providing testing for their employees. They were not ready to complete all of the safety regulations required for all of the different departments, therefore, had to postpone the reopening. Although we want people to be able to return to work, we are much more concerned about our members' safety. We hope this will help Disneyland implement the necessary safety protocol for all attending and working. Randy and I are still in negotiations with Disneyland Resort here in Anaheim regarding the reopening and cast members returning to work. Their next reopening date is still undetermined. We have yet to move past the wake of COVID. Television City is in the process of going back to work. Randy and I have been working with our members to make sure the safety protocols are in place. I hope this finds you and yours well. We are all continually reminded how fragile and special life is. We are artists and thrive when we are doing what we love and loving what we do. I understand how difficult this time is for each of us and how we are all individually impacted. We are struggling with different issues. As always, I am open to talk or simply just to listen. Please just reach out. Much love & light to you all. In Solidarity, Patrice K. Madrigal BY PATRICE K. MADRIGAL Theater Business Representative I.A.T.S.E. Local 706 Theme Park, Theater & Broadcast Television News SHOW NEWS