SAG-AFTRA surveys members on the industry’s Covid vaccine mandates and other topics

SAG-AFTRA is asking its members for their views on the industry’s Covid vaccination mandate before the expiry of Covid protocols on January 31, under an oft-renewed agreement between the Alliance of Motion Picture & Television Producers and Hollywood unions.

“Do you agree with employers requiring a Covid-19 vaccination as a condition for access to the set?” ask one of the questions. “If there are extenuating circumstances which mean that a production cannot continue without a vaccine order from the employer, do you support the employer carrying out such an order?” asked another.

The survey (read here) also asks members how familiar they are with SAG-AFTRA’s “development of Covid-19 safety protocols and policies” that have “created a safer workplace during a global pandemic.”

Fran Drescher, president of SAG-AFTRA, called for the investigation. In the current issue of SAG-AFTRA MagazineShe wrote:

“I will continue to fight for our members who feel discriminated against because of the Covid-unvaccinated or unstimulated status that prevents them from working in major studio productions. For those members who are not considered fair by the studios regarding their religious or health disorders, help is on the way!

“As a result of this continued policy, many artistes have lost their representation, medical facilities and livelihood. We want to hear the pulse of the entire membership on this topic and more, so keep an eye on the SAG-AFTRA national survey and answer any questions to help our National Council represent you in the best way possible.”

The survey also includes questions about how members rate the importance of various Guild services, including contract enforcement and contract negotiation; Communication; the Guild Security Line; the processing of backlogs and the organization of new employment opportunities, and their familiarity with SAG-AFTRA’s commitment to promoting diversity and equality; Sustainability and prevention and control of sexual harassment.

“SAG-AFTRA is your union and we are here to serve you,” the guild told its members. “Please take a moment to complete this important survey about the topics that matter most to you, how we can best communicate with you, and where we should focus our efforts to be most effective.

“We strive to make the industry more inclusive and fair for all our members, and it all starts with you. Your feedback is important to continue our good work in the coming years and to help us better understand and serve you, the members.”

All survey responses, the guild said, are “anonymous and confidential.”