Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1367665
16 SAG-AFTRA | Spring 2021 | sagaftra.org News, Information and Benefits Dear Member: This year's convention will be held virtually from Oct. 16–18, and although it's sad we can't be in the same room to enjoy each other's company, our convention will be no less ambitious. There will be opportunities for breakout groups, connecting with and honoring fellow members, and, of course, conducting the important business of the union. Our biennial conventions are where we elect our executive vice president and the seven national vice presidents who represent member categories and the locals of various sizes. We also consider amendments to the SAG-AFTRA Constitution and resolutions put forth by members like you. To reflect our current circumstances, this year's convention, our fifth since merger, will bear the theme "Virtual, Vital, Visionary." A lot has changed since our last convention two years ago, but a lot hasn't: Member involvement is still the key to our success, and there's no better time to make your voice heard than right now. The following pages contain all the information you need to get started, from how to be a convention delegate representing your local to the process for running for higher elected office. More than ever before, the union is benefitting from people with fresh ideas and new ways of thinking. So, if you've been considering becoming involved in your union, this is the year to take that leap! In unity and looking forward, David White National Executive Director Call to Convention S AG-AFTRA leadership has been busier than ever during the pandemic. The National Board has convened via videoconference four times since the beginning of 2021, with meetings taking place on Jan. 19, Feb. 6, March 24 and April 17, twice the usual number of meetings. Plus, the Board met for unconscious bias training on March 3. Following SAG-AFTRA's Stop the Hate Week (see page 50), the Board approved the formation of a Diversity Action Plan during its April 17 meeting. The plan is designed to encourage the use of inclusive language, establish diversity committees to serve the Middle Eastern and North African, and Latino communities, and provide implicit bias and inclusion training for National and local board members, broadcasters and other member groups. Also approved was a new membership rule that would explicitly prohibit harassment and abuse, including sexual harassment, intimidation and retaliation for the filing of complaints, and make such violations subject to disciplinary action. "Stop the Hate Week has been all about taking action to support and protect our members from diverse communities, many of whom are under direct threat and facing violent attacks," said SAG-AFTRA President Gabrielle Carteris. "The action plan approved by our National Board today advances concrete actions to stem the tide of hate." In other business, the Board approved the establishment of a puppeteers committee and podcast committee. The fiscal year 2022 budget was approved, and the Board extended the COVID-19 dues relief program for the union's May dues period. The JPC Safety Protocols Agreement, which will codify existing safety protocols for commercials producers, was announced during the meeting, and the National Board passed a four-month extension of the National Code of Fair Practice for Network Television Broadcasting. The Board appointed Becca Lish to the SAG-Producers Pension Plan Board of Trustees. The Board and staff also paid tribute to late National Board member Joe Krebs. National Board Forwards Its Initiatives for Diversity and Extends Dues Relief Continues on page 81