Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1546062
8 SAG-AFTR A | Summer 2026 | sagaftra.org A Letter From the President "Our job is to fight for more work where we can … [and] to protect the value of our work." Dear Member, I t's summertime! I hope this message finds you well. I know many members are still searching for the next opportunity, and for too many, this has been one of the most challenging periods ever. But there are encouraging signs. Expanded state production tax incentives are helping move hundreds of projects into the pipeline, creating tens of thousands of jobs. As our economist puts it, we're seeing "a modest rebound." Our industry remains in transition. Technology is evolving, viewing habits continue to change and artificial intelligence presents significant challenges. While production may not return to the extraordinary levels of the streaming boom, movies, television shows, commercials and digital content are still being made, and talented professionals are still essential to bringing them to life. Nothing can replace your creativity, experience or professionalism. Our job is to fight for more work where we can. Our mission to secure a federal tax incentive continues with intensity. Moreover, our job is to protect the value of our work. In June, our members ratified the new Television/Theatrical/Streaming agreement with more than 91% approval. Thank you to everyone who served on the negotiating committee, to our staff and National Board, and to every member who participated in informational meetings and voted. Your engagement strengthens our union. As you begin working under the new contract, remember that it is one of your most important tools. If you have questions, never hesitate to reach out to your union for explanation and assistance. One of the great privileges of serving as your president is representing SAG-AFTRA with affiliated groups. In June, I led our delegation to the AFL-CIO quadrennial convention, where I was honored to be elected a vice president of the AFL-CIO Executive Council. What struck me most was the respect our union has earned throughout the labor movement. Our work on artificial intelligence and the solidarity demonstrated during the 2023 strike have established SAG-AFTRA as a recognized leader among working people across the country. When AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler invited me to address the convention, I was proud to stand before thousands of union members knowing they understood and respected the work you do every day. I also returned to Washington, D.C., to testify before the House Judiciary Subcommittee on Courts, Intellectual Property, Artificial Intelligence and the Internet in support of the NO FAKES Act. This bipartisan legislation would establish meaningful federal protections for every American's voice and likeness while preserving First Amendment protections for news, parody and other lawful expression. It's one more way we're working to protect members from the misuse of AI beyond what can be achieved at the bargaining table. Closer to home, we're continuing to modernize our website and technology systems to better serve members and stay focused on all of our internal working parts. There is always more to do, and I'm honored to do it on your behalf. Thank you for your talent, your resilience and your commitment to one another. Stay engaged, stay informed and know that your union is working every day to protect your future. With respect and solidarity, Sean Astin S E A N A S T I N