Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1490775
Dear Members, This year marks the 25th CDGA and we have such extraordinary talent to celebrate. Our nominees cover a broad range of worlds and eras. I would like to take this opportunity to say congratulations to all of our talented nominees. In a show of support and solidarity, I have been very fortunate to attend screenings followed by Q&As to hear the costume designers' perspective firsthand. It is always inspiring to hear the insights into the work created by our ingenious members. The Fabelmans designed by Mark Bridges, Babylon's Mary Zophres, Wakanda Forever's Ruth Carter, Avatar's Deborah L. Scott, and Bardo's Anna Terrazas to name a few. Mary stated that every piece in Babylon came from a historical reference and was in fact, from the '20s, but it felt fresh and modern because the costumes were not what we usually associate with that era. I love that she took pieces that were unfamiliar from a time period and made the film seem timeless. I must commend our members on their internal organizing for pay equity which has helped raise wages across the board. This type of organizing is one of the most successful in a union because members are enthusiastic and galvanized to help one another. Because of this solidarity, when members call me for assistance in negotiating their deals, they increase their wages and fringe benefits. This is a direct result of members talking to each other. Sharing information with your peers is at the heart of our efforts as a union and a community. The CDG will form a committee for the 2024 Basic Agreement contract negotiations. Please contact me if you want to be involved. This is the time to weigh in and have your voice be heard. If you feel the current contract doesn't reflect your priorities, please contribute to the process. It is counterproductive to make your voice heard after the proposals have been submitted to the employers. Take the time now so we are strong and united going into negotiations. When we aren't cohesive, the employers benefit. Pitting locals against each other is how they undermine some while elevating others. Solidarity among all members and locals is imperative to reach our goals for 2024. One of the joys of my job is to work one-on-one with our members and see them succeed. Please feel free to call me to discuss your contracts, concerns and also your wins. I want to support our members in every possible way. Keep an eye out for our joint venture with Motion Picture Costumers IATSE Local 705, The Bullying Institute Program. The video series is a 12-part program to help empower our members. It should be an excellent resource for all members in dealing with and preventing bullying in the workplace. Finally, I must congratulate President Terry Gordon for her over 20 years of involvement in—well, just about everything. She was the governor of the Television Academy for two terms, taught at USC, has held a myriad of Board positions at the CDG, chaired multiple committees, and is the go-to person when you need assistance. We have worked together volunteering at the Guild for years but more extensively during her first few months in office. I look forward in the next few years to see how we continue to grow and innovate at the CDG for the members' benefit. Brigia Romanov In solidarity, Brigitta Romanov bromanav@cdgia.com Photo: Stephanie Romanov Executive Director 8 THE COSTUME DESIGNER | SPRING 2023