Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/964761
28 SAG-AFTRA | Spring 2018 | SAGAFTRA.org JAN. 21 Members Brie Larson and Lupita Nyong'o announce the development of SAG-AFTRA's new Code of Conduct during the 24th Annual SAG Awards. JAN. 9 Member Chantal Cousineau testifies on behalf of the union at a hearing of the state Senate Judiciary Committee in support of California Senate Bill 224. The bill is an amendment to existing California sexual harassment law that adds director and producer to the list of examples of relationships that have civil liability for sexual harassment. The bill passed the state Senate unanimously, and is waiting to be heard in the Assembly. The union is also considering sponsoring legislation about nondisclosure agreements in New York. FEB. 2 The President's Blue Ribbon Commission on Safety establishes a Sexual Harassment Work Group and appoints members to serve. Harassment is a violation of the nondiscrimination clause of the Codified Basic Agreement, and that cuts to the heart of two of the union's most important missions: Enforcing contracts and protecting members. In the past, the challenge was that the union often didn't learn about misconduct because members were concerned that reporting it could damage their careers. It's not just the entertainment industry; it's the same destructive culture that has kept victims in every sector from coming forward. While that hasn't changed overnight, there are signs of improvement. Since the Weinstein allegations came to light, members are contacting the union with questions and concerns around discrimination and harassment at nearly 40 times the previous rate. And with members embracing the philosophy of "Stop. Support. Report.," they can be at the forefront of creating a better, more respectful working environment for all. The zeitgeist of the moment is presenting a chance for real, fundamental change — not just in the industry, but in society as a whole. With women holding the top three elected positions in the union's governance, SAG-AFTRA is seizing the opportunity. Carteris spoke on the issue this past January at the 24th Annual SAG Awards, addressing her fellow performers and the world. "I am incredibly inspired by the women and men across the country who have shared their truths with such courage and such candor. Truth is power, and women are stepping into their power," she said. "We are in the midst of a massive cultural shift. With brave voices saying 'Me Too,' and advocates who know Time's Up, we are making a difference. You are making a difference. Change is coming and we are the agents of that change." Read the complete Code of Conduct at sagaftra.org. Continues from page 26 Q & A SAG-AFTRA National Executive Director David White is instrumental in the union's day- to-day efforts to combat sexual harassment and, beyond that, to reshape the culture that permitted it to continue unseen. He discussed challenges, opportunities and the importance of member involvement in achieving this goal. Q: The union has launched the Four Pillars of Change initiative. Why is this an important issue for SAG-AFTRA? A: It is critical for at least two reasons: One, the level of misconduct happening in our members' workplaces and the severity of the harm inflicted on many of our Reporting Harassment If you see something wrong or believe you are subject to unlawful discrimination or harassment, contact SAG-AFTRA at (323) 549-6644 during business hours or the 24-hour hotline at (844) SAFER-SET / (844) 723-3773. If you are in immediate danger, dial 911 to contact local law enforcement. with DAVID WHITE KEVIN WINTER/GETTY IMAGES JAN. 31 Carteris is the featured speaker at the IATSE Women's Committee Networking Event in L.A. (see page 17).