Unions from all across NYC joined actors and writers outside of Disney Studios on Tuesday in a National Day of Solidarity to support the ongoing strike.
Photo by Dean Moses
Unions from across New York City joined actors and writers outside the Disney Studios in Manhattan on Tuesday in a National Day of Solidarity to support the ongoing strike.
As the SAG-AFTRA strike rages into its fifth week, actors and writers were joined by members of an array of different unions– including unions that represent construction and retail workers, to nurses and teachers. They showed up to pound the pavement and join the picket line outside of 450 West 33rd St. in Hudson Yards.
SAG-AFTRA hopes that with the groundswell of support from an array of different unions that they will be able to put additional pressure on the AMPTP to come to the bargaining table.
SAG- AFTRA local President Ezra Knight told amNewYork Metro that the support from the fellow unions means “the world” to him.
“Literally the world is watching, and the worldwide support that we’ve gotten has been nothing less than enthusiasm building, resolve inducing, solidarity and support. It’s always important for me as a leader to convey to my members at SAG-AFTRA that we are part of a larger labor force,” Knight said.
The actors are demanding wage increases, health benefits, and protections from new technologies that can mimic their likeness and voice, rendering them obsolete. Knight says these technological advances not only impact the entertainment industry but also many job sectors.
Hundreds lined the sidewalk and roadway outside of Disney, chanting, waving picket signs, and even banging drums.
SAG-AFTRA leaders claim that AMPTP is still refusing to discuss their demands, believing that the workers will tire out. Those in attendance said they would not tire, calling out in unison: “Another day longer, another day stronger.”
Elected officials such as New York City Comptroller Brad…
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