Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1500442
6 • THE ARTISAN SUMMER 2023 the issue. This action can raise awareness and build support for their cause within the entertainment industry, but more impor- tantly, among the broader community. Unions can also promote solidarity by sharing resources and expertise. They can collaborate on a variety of training pro- grams, share their research, and their past and/or best practices, and even provide aid in times of need. This type of solidarity helps strengthen the labor movement as a whole and builds a sense of common purpose among the members from the dif- ferent entertainment industry unions in Los Angeles and the country. The solidarity among IATSE Local 706 Make-Up Artists & Hair Stylists Guild is a testament to the unwavering unity and camaraderie within the entertainment industry. As integral members of the production team, these talented artists exem- plify the power of collaboration and support in their pursuit of creative excellence on any film, television program, live theater, network TV, and the Disneyland Resort Cosmetology Unit. Through their shared experiences, common goals, and mutual respect for their craft, Local 706 make-up artists/hair stylists have forged a strong bond that transcends individual achieve- ments, thus creating a tight-knit community committed to advancing their craft, advocating for their rights, and uplifting one another in the face of adversity. The solidarity among these professionals not only strengthens their collective voice but also reinforces the vital role they play in bringing characters to life and shaping the visual storytelling of various genres. The current WGA Strike serves as a reminder that the strength of unions lies in the hands of its members and their unwavering commitment to fighting for better wages, benefits, and working conditions, fairness, and their rights. The unity and resilience exhibited by the WGA writers will undoubtedly inspire others to join, shaping a future where creative professionals are valued, respected, and correctly compensated for their invaluable contributions. The WGA Strike has a direct and indirect effect on the film industry, including ALL the "below" and "above" the line unions and its members. While the strike has disrupted work and caused financial strain, it also highlighted the importance of solidarity and fair treatment across the entertainment industry and shows us how we are ALL interconnected. We need to stand together in solidarity with the entertainment industry sisters, brothers, and kin. Their fight is our fight, their win is our win… That's SOLIDARITY. Karen J. Westerfield Solidarity and Unity, Always— It's More Important NOW Than Ever. As part of the labor movement, we must champion for the workers who seek representation for better wages, benefits, and working conditions. We stand with those who want a fair deal, a better work-life balance, and a living wage. As of May 15, 2023, the Office Staff of Local 706 will be represented by Teamsters Local 911. The Collective Bargaining Agreement between IATSE Local 706 and Teamsters 911 was ratified by both parties in the beginning of May 2023, the first such contract in the Local's history. A greater unity and solidarity within the Local, while the industry steps up in support of the WGA, DGA, and SAG- AFTRA as they are in contract negotiations. One way we can promote solidarity is by joining together by forming alliances with our union sisters, brothers, and kin. These relationships can bring together members from various unions to work together on common issues. Solidarity among various unions in the "Hollywood Entertainment Community" can be a powerful force for advo- cating for the rights and interests of workers. When unions come together in solidarity, they can leverage their collective bargaining power to negotiate better wages, benefits, and work- ing conditions for their members, and therefore, ALL union members. We help promote solidarity among various unions by supporting each other's struggles. When one union is on strike or facing a tough negotiation, other unions can show solidar- ity by joining their picket lines or spreading their word about LOCAL PERSPECTIVE by Karen J. Westerfield Business Representative, I.A.T.S.E. Local 706 The WGA members walking the picket line at Warner Bros. Studio, Gate 2 on May 2, 2023