In a unanimous decision, the New York City Council has thrown its full support behind the ongoing strikes led by SAG-AFTRA and WGA against major Hollywood studios.
The council members, led by Carmen De La Rosa and Amanda Farias, championed the cause of fair contract negotiations between the Writers Guild of America (WGA) and the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA), and the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP).
During the Thursday session, the council voted in favor of two critical resolutions—Resolution 694 and Resolution 729. These resolutions are a powerful endorsement of the union’s efforts to secure equitable agreements with the AMPTP, addressing essential concerns such as streaming residuals, livable wages, health benefits, and safeguards against the rise of artificial intelligence.
In a witty nod to Disney CEO Bob Iger, Councilmember De La Rosa quipped, “Bob better sell that yacht quick!” She also emphasized the broader movement of labor unions advocating for better compensation and transformative changes within their respective sectors, aptly describing it as a “hot labor summer.”
The unanimous decision was based on a shared acknowledgment of the issues raised by the unions, now deep into their 93rd day of strike for writers and 20th day for actors. In a press release, the council called for the AMPTP to find a constructive solution and end the impasse.
De La Rosa, who chairs the Civil Service and Labor Committee, noted the historical significance of this joint strike by sister unions after 63 years. She highlighted the surging labor movements witnessed in recent months, citing the avoidance of a UPS strike, the landmark contract secured by NYSNA, and the growing momentum for change across the city.
Resolution 694 calls explicitly on the AMPTP to engage in sincere negotiations culminating in a just contract for all Writers Guild of America members. Meanwhile, Resolution 729 conveys unwavering backing for the SAG-AFTRA members striking in their pursuit of an equitable agreement.
The resolutions underlined the substantial economic impact of the strike on the city. The film and television industry is an indispensable economic driver, generating significant revenue and many job opportunities for residents. This industry contributes around 6.5% of the city’s annual gross domestic product and provides livelihoods to over 185,000 individuals.
The statement highlighted the potential to usher in transformative change within an industry that has remained largely stagnant. Creatives often juggle multiple roles to pursue their passions and produce content that entertains us. With the council’s resolutions and sincere negotiations, the hope is that new seasons of beloved shows like ‘Abbott Elementary’ or ‘Stranger Things’ become a reality. The statement also called out the need to curb corporate profiteering at the expense of the workforce, encapsulating it with the playful remark, “Bob better sell that yacht quick!”
Following the passage of Resolution 0694-A, the WGA East expressed their gratitude, appreciating the City Council’s support for the striking writers. The resolution effectively underscores the responsibility of the AMPTP, which encompasses significant studios and streaming platforms, to engage transparently for a contract that genuinely addresses the needs and concerns of its members. In a time of critical importance for the industry’s future, the solidarity of the unions remains steadfast. The WGA East thanked the City Council, particularly member Carmen De La Rosa, for sponsoring the resolution.
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