The ongoing writers strike has become the focal point of the WGA East’s officer and Council elections. In the recently released official candidate statements, all candidates pledged their unwavering support for the strike, emphasizing their commitment to remain on the picket line until a fair contract is achieved. The strike, which commenced on May 2 and has now entered its 114th day, has had a significant impact on the political landscape within the guild.
A Battle for Fair Pay and Saving the Industry
Lisa Takeuchi Cullen, the uncontested candidate for the guild’s presidency, expressed her determination to lead the guild to victory in their fight for fair pay. Cullen declared, “We will not give up. We will not give in,” and affirmed that she will guide the guild “over the finish line in our epic battle for fair pay.” With her experience as the current vice president of the guild’s Film, Television, and Streaming sector, Cullen has been involved in extensive discussions with members, staff, sister Guilds, politicians, and non-members throughout the strike. She commended the members who have courageously stood up, despite great personal sacrifice, to safeguard the industry they love.
A Struggle That Resonates Across the Nation
Christopher Kyle, who is running unopposed for reelection as secretary-treasurer, acknowledged the widespread support the strike has garnered. He asserted, “The struggles of 11,500 film and TV writers have resonated across the country.” Kyle expressed gratitude for the tremendous backing received from other unions such as IATSE, SAG-AFTRA, and the Teamsters, which has bolstered the strength of their strike. He highlighted the significance of the strike and stated, “This is an existential struggle for the future of our profession. We cannot and will not surrender on our core issues.”
Erica Saleh, the uncontested candidate for vice president of the guild’s Film, Television, and Streaming sector, reflected on the evolving nature of the industry and the need to restore stability. Saleh emphasized the importance of regaining the stability that was once present in the industry, especially for newer members who face precariousness in their careers. She pledged to work closely with the Council to ensure that all members understand and fully exercise their contractual rights once victory is achieved in the strike.
A Highly Contested Council Election
Twelve candidates are competing for six Council seats representing the guild’s Film, Television, and Streaming sector. The candidates include Ian Olympio, Sarah Montana, Sofia Alvarez, Zhubin Parang, Beanie Barnes, Hallie Haglund, Nick Bernardone, and the incumbents Sasha Stewart, Liz Hynes, Benjamin Rosenblum, Greg Iwinski, and Josh Gondelman. The election for these Council seats will be highly contested and will play a crucial role in shaping the guild’s direction during this critical period.
Internet Media Representation
Four candidates, including Sie Morley, Samantha Smylie, David Lumb, and the incumbent Caitlin Cruz, are vying for three Council seats that represent the guild’s Online Media sector. Their election will be vital in ensuring that the interests and concerns of those in the online media industry are effectively represented within the guild.
The Deadline for Voting
Voting for the WGA East’s officer and Council elections will commence on September 6 and close on September 21. The outcome of these elections will undoubtedly have a profound impact not only on the ongoing writers strike but also on the future of the guild and its members.
Meanwhile, the WGA West is also conducting its officer and board elections concurrently with the strike. Voting for the WGA West will conclude on September 19. These parallel elections signify the unified effort of both East and West to address the pressing issues facing the industry and ensure that writers’ concerns are effectively represented from coast to coast.
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