United Scenic Artists, IATSE Local 829, has released its first demographic survey of more than 5,000 members nationwide. By local, the survey revealed “very low rates of members who identify as part of the Black community (1.9%), the Asian community (2.7%), the Latino/X community (3.6%), and the indigenous community (0.4%). ” found it included. ). ). %) and the Middle East/North African community (0.6%).
However, these figures are based on 44.7% of the local population surveyed. As the study says, “The data presented here, specifically the percentages, are calculated for the membership of the entire association and include all non-participating members.” Slightly more women than men took part in the survey, although the source states that the majority of the local population is male.
Regarding sexual orientation, the survey found that 6.8% of members identified as “gay and lesbian”, 0.6% as “queer” and 2.3% as “bisexual”.
See the full report here.
“Our association is committed to building a welcoming cooperative community,” said Edward Pierce, President of Local USA 829. “It starts here with homeschooling, participation, listening and of course collective action. All of us in the entertainment industry must heed the call to do our best on behalf of our artists, our audience, and our colleagues and families. “
New York City-based Local 829 represents performing artists; stage, costume, lighting, sound and projection designers; computer artists; Art and Costume Department Coordinators; and stage shop workers across the country working in live performance, film, television and commercials.
“This is the start of a new season of entertainment and the focus is not just on the stories being told, but on who is telling them,” said Sherry Mojgan, Local 829 member and Eastern District trustee, who led and facilitated the event. Attempts to identify the link. “We are storytellers in the native US 829, but these census data show that our demographics do not reflect the makeup of the United States and the communities from which our stories originate. We need to work together, including with employers, to create an industry that can fully support BIPOC employees, leading to more diverse storytelling teams and more dynamic stories. These things start in our union. “
Carl Muellert, National Business Representative for Local 829, said, “Our Native initiated our first demographic census not only to help the union better understand our membership landscape, but also to have a complete picture of our union, to help us stand up for all.” said. . In our conversations and outside of our workplaces. Knowing that the work ahead is inclusive and inclusive means we have the opportunity to work strategically with our partners to promote an entertainment industry that is fair and respectful to all who work in the industry.
Porsche McGovern, a local member serving as a trustee for the Eastern District, added: “After several years of surveying those who design LORT theaters with pronouns, the release of data from the Union Demographic Survey opens up new opportunities for research. . and action steps. Looking at these data through an intersecting lens will allow the Union to address the impact of repression, recognizing the complexity and nuance needed for sustainable change. For example, to the extent that caregiving disproportionately affects women, does it show up as fewer contracts or lower paid contracts, or both, or something else entirely? How can the entertainment industry and society overcome prejudices about care work?
The union said it was “determined to strengthen the entertainment industry that embraces capital as a fundamental principle”. Local US 829 advances this agenda through union committees, bargaining and education efforts, creating opportunities for mentoring and collaboration aimed at building and leading communities that influence peers and families in fun.
Source: Deadline
Crystal Leahy is an author and health journalist who writes for The Fashion Vibes. With a background in health and wellness, Crystal has a passion for helping people live their best lives through healthy habits and lifestyles.
