SAG-AFTRA, the renowned entertainment union, is set to host an enormous rally in Times Square on Tuesday morning. This highly anticipated event is expected to be the largest gathering in New York City since the strike commenced on July 14th. A star-studded guest list has been confirmed, featuring prominent celebrities such as Bryan Cranston, Steve Buscemi, Christian Slater, Lauren Ambrose, Christine Baranski, Matt Bomer, Tituss Burgess, and many more. The rally, aptly named “Rock the City for a Fair Contract,” aims to bring attention to the pressing issues faced by SAG-AFTRA members.
Demands for Fair Compensation
In a statement released by the guild, SAG-AFTRA emphasized their battle to secure equitable compensation for its members, particularly regarding streaming revenues. The union is determined to ensure its members receive their fair share of these revenues. Furthermore, SAG-AFTRA is striving for increased compensation that keeps pace with inflation. The union’s demands also include an agreement that guarantees actors’ informed consent and fair pay when artificial intelligence (A.I.) generates digital replicas of their performances, voices, and likenesses. These demands have become central to the ongoing negotiations.
Presence of Key Figures
The rally will not only be graced by renowned celebrities but also attended by influential figures within SAG-AFTRA’s leadership. Duncan Crabtree-Ireland, SAG-AFTRA’s National Executive Director and chief negotiator, will be present alongside Secretary-Treasurer Joely Fisher. Additionally, Ezra Knight, the New York President, and Rebecca Damon, Executive Director of New York Local, Labor Policy, and International Affairs, will join the rally. The presence of these key figures underscores the importance of the event and the unity among SAG-AFTRA members.
Solidarity Among Labor Leaders
The rally has garnered support beyond SAG-AFTRA, with esteemed labor leaders from both the state and local levels lending their presence. Lowell Peterson, the Executive Director of WGA East, will attend, as will Mario Cilento, President of the New York State AFL-CIO, and Vincent Alvarez, President of the NYC Central Labor Council. The solidarity among these labor leaders amplifies the message of fair treatment and compensation for all workers in the entertainment industry.
SAG-AFTRA’s massive rally in Times Square serves as a powerful demonstration of unity and determination. With the presence of notable celebrities and influential labor leaders, the event aims to shed light on the pressing issues faced by SAG-AFTRA members. The demands for fair compensation, consent, and protection in the era of AI-generated replicas are at the forefront of negotiations. This rally underscores the union’s commitment to fighting for the rights and fair treatment of its members in the ever-evolving entertainment landscape.
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