Animation Guild | We are 839 Digital Magazine
Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1512296
8 KEYFRAME L E T T E R IF I WERE GRANTED A SINGLE WISH, I'D USE IT TO MEND THE BROKEN PIECES OF OUR WORLD, WHERE CLIMATE CATASTROPHES, NEW DISEASES, CRUMBLING INFRASTRUCTURE, WEALTH INEQUALITY, GEOPOLITICAL CONFLICTS, AND THREATS TO DEMOCRACY LOOM OVER US LIKE OMINOUS CLOUDS. WHILE I WISH I POSSESSED THE MAGIC TO SOLVE ALL THESE PROBLEMS, I WOULD LIKE TO FOCUS OUR THOUGHTS TODAY ON A MORE SPECIFIC WISH— ONE THAT CONCERNS OUR BELOVED ANIMATION INDUSTRY. In a time where so much seems uncertain, one constant remains—the volatility in the entertainment industry. My wish for the future of animation is that production orders rise to a sustainable rate, providing steady work for all talented artists and dedicated crews. We aspire to contribute to an industry where we can lead stable, middle-class lives, free from the anxiety of constantly hunting for our next gig. We envision a future where technological changes are in the hands of the artists, granting us the freedom to experiment creatively, while maintaining a manageable workload that allows us to spend quality time with our loved ones. We dream of a world where we all can afford to own property and build a nest egg for a comfortable retirement. As we know, wishes alone cannot make these dreams a reality. It takes concerted effort and unwavering commitment from each and every one of us. Our Union, our bond to each other, is the conduit to transform our wishes into reality. Together, we are a powerful force, capable of bringing positive change to our industry and securing better working conditions for everyone. Soon, we are approaching our next round of negotiations, a critical moment that can shape the course of our industry. I encourage each of you to remain unified as we navigate the challenging waters ahead. Our strength lies in our collective voice, and by working together, we can make our wish for a more stable, prosperous animation industry come true. Let's continue to support one another, share our experiences, and voice our concerns, as we strive to create an industry where artists and crews are not just cogs in a machine, but integral contributors to the magic of animation. Let's work together to make our dream a reality, where every artist and crew member can enjoy a fulfilling career, a balanced life, and a secure future. Thank you for your dedication and commitment to our industry. Let's keep the flame of our wishes alive, for together we can achieve great things. Here's to a bright and prosperous future for animation! In Solidarity, Jeanette Moreno King | President The Animation Guild, IATSE Local 839 UNIFYING OUR WISHES FOR A STRONGER ANIMATION INDUSTRY ON THE COVER To celebrate TAG's contributions to Walt Disney Animation over the decades, Tim Sullens photographed (clockwise from top center) Dale Mayeda, Jane Baer, Jin Kim, Fawn Veerasunthorn, and Mark Henn.