A united front is forming in the Hollywood labor battle.
The leadership of the Screen Actors Guild, Writers Guild of America, Teamsters and International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees have signed a joint statement of solidarity with the Directors Guild of America in its final week of contract negotiations.
“A fair contract for directors does not benefit just a select few; it uplifts every worker in the film and television industry and acknowledges the interconnected nature of our work. We call on the [Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers] to immediately negotiate a fair agreement that addresses the Directors Guild of America’s unique priorities in good faith,” the statement reads.
The move comes 30 days after the WGA began its strike and 21 days after the DGA began its contract negotiations with the studios. While the DGA and SAG have expressed sympathy and support for the striking writers, the formal pledge of solidarity is a significant development in the labor battle.
The DGA has until June 7 to reach an agreement with the studios; its current contract expires June 30. SAG will begin contract talks soon; its contract also expires June 30.
The WGA began its strike looking for increased employment protections, better residuals on streaming content and increased regulation on artificial intelligence technology.
• Vaughn Cockayne can be reached at vcockayne@washingtontimes.com.
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