Animation Guild | We are 839 Digital Magazine
Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1529871
L E T T E R AS THE YEAR WINDS TO A CLOSE, I FIND MYSELF REFLECTING ON WHAT A TURBULENT YET TRANSFOR- MATIVE YEAR 2024 HAS BEEN FOR OUR INDUSTRY AND FOR THE ANIMATION GUILD. THE CHALLENGES HAVE BEEN UNDENIABLE, BUT SO TOO HAVE BEEN THE MOMENTS OF RESILIENCE, SOLIDARITY, AND HOPE. Like many of you, I've spent this year navigating an industry in contraction. We've seen projects shelved, budgets slashed, and talented colleagues facing extended unemployment. As a Director, I've felt the sting of uncertainty too, trying to adapt and grow in an ever- shifting landscape. And yet, in those quieter moments—whether I was walking my dogs Tito and Meatball or sketching out ideas for an animated short in my home studio—I found myself inspired by the unwavering creativity and determination of this community. This year, our Union stood at the center of it all. From navigating contentious contract negotiations with the AMPTP to ensuring that our members' voices were heard during one of the most critical periods in our history, we've been hard at work. Our Negotiations Committee showed incredible dedication, putting countless hours into drafting proposals and analyzing results to ght for the future we deserve. It wasn't easy, but it was necessary. The solidarity of our membership shone through this year. Whether you attended a rally, participated in our meetings, or simply reached out to support a fellow member, you demonstrated the true meaning of unionism. This year reminded me of the strength that comes from community, and I am so proud to be part of this one. Looking ahead, I'm cautiously optimistic. The challenges aren't over, but neither is the ght. There are bright spots on the horizon—a renewed focus on equitable pay, continued demand for animated shows and movies, and growth in our Union power. We have the opportunity to shape what comes next, and I truly believe that together, we can steer our industry toward a more sustainable, creative, and inclusive future. As we head into the holiday season and prepare for a new year, I want to thank each of you for your contributions, your resilience, and your trust in this Union. Let's keep dreaming, creating, and standing together. In Solidarity, Jeanette Moreno King | President The Animation Guild, IATSE Local 839 LET'S LOOK FORWARD, SHALL WE? ON THE COVER Visual development art for DreamWorks Animation's The Wild Robot depicts main character Roz in an impressionist shower of butterflies.