Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/904648
8 SAG-AFTRA | Fall/Winter 2017 | SAGAFTRA.org A Letter from the Executive Vice President R E B E C C A D A M O N "If sustained, positive change is our goal, nothing pays bigger dividends than investing in the next generation." Dear Member, A s we near year's end, there's a natural tendency to look to the future, to what the next year — or next decade — will bring. The only certainty is that it will bring change, and what we do will determine if that change is positive or negative. As unionists, we know a thing or two about putting collective action to work for positive change. We do it every time we negotiate a contract or when employers push us too far and we are forced to strike. One area in which change is sorely needed is in the culture that has allowed powerful people to disrespect, sexually harass and abuse others without consequence for far too long. We need to build an environment in which the targets of abuse feel safe to come forward, confident that justice will be done. There's a role for everybody in making that happen. Collectively we must make it known that unprofessional — and in many cases criminal — behavior will not be tolerated. And we must look to our younger members. Whether it's striving to create a world free from harassment or getting ahead of the curve on technology issues to ensure the union remains a relevant, powerful force in the entertainment and media industry, we are going to need their help. This is just one of the countless ways our younger members will make us stronger. After all, they are the ones that will be living and leading in the world of tomorrow. There's rarely one solution to making real change, but if sustained, positive change is our goal, nothing pays bigger dividends than investing in the next generation. It's why I believe so passionately in mentoring. Share your knowledge, experience and passion. Let the next generation know they have agency. That's how we make real change. But collective action only works when we are all pulling in the same direction. We have such an advantage in our size and breadth and in the rich diversity of our ideas. We can't allow those assets to become sources of division when they can and should be our greatest source of strength. I am grateful to have been re-elected as executive vice president and proud to be able to serve the membership for another two years. I also want to congratulate my fellow officers, President Gabrielle Carteris, Secretary-Treasurer Jane Austin, National Vice Presidents Clyde Kusatsu, Liz Zazzi, Ilyssa Fradin, Suzanne Burkhead, Samantha Mathis, Catherine Brown and Dan Navarro. It is an honor to serve with you. Winston Churchill said, "Pick up the mantle of change for now is your time." Now is your time, SAG-AFTRA. Onward together, Rebecca Damon