Here's a breakdown of what SAG-AFTRA does:
What it is:
* A labor union: It advocates for fair wages, benefits, and working conditions for its members.
* A collective bargaining unit: It negotiates contracts with studios, production companies, and other employers in the entertainment industry.
* A professional organization: It provides resources, training, and networking opportunities for its members.
* A voice for its members: It advocates for the rights and interests of its members at the local, state, and national levels.
Who it represents:
* Actors: Film, television, theatre, radio, voiceover, and video game actors.
* Announcers: Radio and television announcers.
* Journalists: Broadcast journalists.
* Stunt performers: Actors who perform dangerous stunts.
* Other entertainment professionals: Producers, directors, writers, and other entertainment professionals.
What it does:
* Negotiates contracts: SAG-AFTRA negotiates contracts with employers that set minimum wages, working conditions, and other benefits for its members.
* Provides health insurance: SAG-AFTRA offers health insurance plans to its members.
* Offers pension and retirement plans: SAG-AFTRA provides pension and retirement plans to its members.
* Advocates for its members: SAG-AFTRA advocates for its members' rights and interests on a variety of issues, including fair compensation, safe working conditions, and diversity and inclusion.
* Provides educational resources: SAG-AFTRA offers a variety of educational resources and training programs to its members.
* Provides networking opportunities: SAG-AFTRA provides networking opportunities for its members through events, conferences, and online forums.
Joining SAG-AFTRA:
* To join SAG-AFTRA, you must meet certain eligibility requirements, such as having worked in the entertainment industry and having a certain number of credits.
* There is a membership fee and monthly dues to be a member.
Significance:
SAG-AFTRA is a powerful force in the entertainment industry. It plays a crucial role in protecting the rights and interests of its members and ensuring that they are treated fairly. It is a valuable resource for entertainment professionals and has made a significant impact on the industry.
Note: There was an organization known simply as the "Actors Guild" before it merged with AFTRA in 2012. The name "Actors Guild" is no longer in use.