Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1541535
20 PRODUCTION SOUND & VIDEO – Winter 2026 everyone a chance to connect, share stories, and build new relationships before the convention officially got underway. District Meetings The District meetings were held on Sunday, July 27, and they really set the tone for the week. It was a chance for Locals from all over to come together in one place and have honest conversations about what's happening in our regions. We shared updates, compared notes, and talked through some of the challenges we're each facing—things like organizing, legislative priorities, and how we're training the next generation. One of the more meaningful parts of the day was reviewing and accepting resolutions. Even though the work is procedural, it's where we make decisions that help guide what we focus on moving forward. I always appreciate these meetings because they remind me that, even though our Locals may deal with very different day-to-day issues, we're united by common goals. That shared purpose—and the collaboration it sparks—is what makes the District meetings so valuable. That evening, I attended the Political Action Committee (PAC) Fundraiser for IATSE International at the Sheraton Waikiki pool. It was a relaxed and enjoyable event with a serious purpose—raising funds to support legislative efforts that protect and advance workers' rights. It also offered a great chance to connect with members and leaders from across the country in a more informal setting, all while supporting the important political work that helps strengthen our union's voice. Convention Overview The Quadrennial Convention officially kicked off on Monday, July 28, at the Sheraton Waikiki. Walking into a room with more than 950 Delegates was something to take in—the energy, the conversations, and the collective purpose were all palpable. It was the largest IATSE convention ever, and the theme, "Solidarity, Security, Prosperity," was front and center in nearly every speech and discussion that followed. The lineup of speakers was impressive and inspiring. Hawaii Governor Josh Green and Congresswoman Jill Tokuda spoke passionately about the importance of labor in their state. Liz The Sheraton Waikiki Hotel