For 118 days - film and television unions stood by in solidarity while SAG-AFTRA members negotiated their contracts in the midst of an already-ongoing 73 day industry strike by the WGA. May 2, 2023 through November 9th, 2023 was a period of near total shutdown for the industry; practically 6 months standing by alongside our brothers and sisters - not working, not collecting paychecks, benefits, or earning future healthcare. The folks behind the camera - the ones who actually make the film physically happen, were just hoping to get back to work and carry on with their lives. The strikes finally concluded on November 9th of 2023 and there was hope again.

With the expectations that work would pick back up in 2024, after such a long hiatus, we are now in 2025 and the film and television community in the US is on LIFE SUPPORT. Members of our community have lost their homes, have had to change careers, and are giving up on the dreams we all have to tell stories and continue the craft of filmmaking.

One thing is clear - there are many folks in this industry without much power - those are the individuals "Below the Line" - the ones that make the movies and shows that MAKE those that are "Above the Line". After all the trust and solidarity that we put into you may we ask, "Where are you now?" In the UK, Romania, or Canada? You have the power and the stardom to keep the work at home here in the United States. We are your backbone that helped get you to where you are today and are now calling on you to not forget us and what has happened to our industry since your deal was achieved. We urge you to remember us, your roots, and the infrastructure to keep our storytelling alive in this country. Thank you.