This weekend we have seen many grieving communities rise together to raise their voice and protest, sparked by the outrage over the senseless murder of George Floyd by a member of the Minneapolis Police Department. As part of the Labor Movement, we as Union Members understand the value of solidarity and collective action to make change in the world around us. The fundamental truth that all people are equal and deserve respect and dignity has always been part of the foundation of the Labor movement since its origin. As Teamsters, we each take an oath upon joining, that in part says, “I will never discriminate against a fellow worker on account of race, color, religion, sex, age, sexual orientation, physical disability or national origin”. It is our duty as Teamster members and working people to stand up for injustices everywhere and work to help eradicate racism in our communities, our homes, and our workplaces. We must continue to demand justice for all as part of our fight to unite and protect workers.
When I say we are all in this together, it extends past the COVID-19 situation. We are proud of our Union family and we are here to support you in whatever way we can.
Below is a recap of this week’s efforts in case you missed anything, as well as a reminder of important ongoing resources and information.
HOLLYWOOD BASIC CRAFTS FOOD DISTRIBUTION EVENT:
This past Friday we were able to serve 1,400 families through the Hollywood Basic Crafts Food Distribution Event. Our Members are the driving force behind everything that we do. This event was organized by Union Members for Union Members and the community at large. As much effort as we are putting into getting our Members safely back to work, we must also strive to find all the ways we can serve and protect our Members throughout this crisis. We want to thank every Union Member, organization and company that worked together on Friday to ensure the success of the event. It’s in moments like these that we are reminded of the strength, solidarity and support of our Union family.
This event would not have been possible without the support and generosity of those listed below:
- The Los Angeles Federation of Labor and Labor Community Services for organizing these events on behalf of Union families and the community at-large throughout Southern California during this pandemic.
- Our Brothers and Sisters part of the Hollywood Basic Crafts – IBEW Local 40, LiUNA! Local 724, OPCMIA Local 755, and UA Plumbers.
- The Los Angeles Regional Food Bank for donating produce, meats and dairy products to be handed out to those in need of extra food assistance for the week.
- Zio Studio Services, their staff and Local 399 Member Louis Dargenzio for donating the event space and equipment for the day, making this food distribution event possible.
- Chef Robert Catering and the catering support crew for donating breakfast, coolers, chairs and most importantly, their time to help feed our incredible volunteers for the day.
- Councilwoman Monica Rodriguez for showing support for the event and helping to invite the Sylmar community to stop by and safely pick-up food for the week.
- Triscenic Production Services for donating a dumpster for the day.
- Line 204 for donating cones to support the staging of the event.
- Last, but certainly not least, our hardworking Member VOLUNTEERS! We are grateful for the support from our Local 399 Members and our Brothers and Sisters who comprise the Basic Crafts Unions. This event would not have been possible without your support. We are proud of our Members that have gone above and beyond to support those in need during this challenging time.
MORE PHOTOS FROM THE EVENT COMING SOON.
BELOW-THE-LINE PODCAST:
Tommy O’Donnell (Theatrical Teamsters Local 817), Steve Dayan (Teamsters Local 399) and Lorrie Ward (Teamsters Local 155 – Vancouver) were featured on Below the Line Podcast in a discussion about how the pandemic is impacting Motion Picture Industry Teamster Members, resources for those in need, and the strategy and efforts being done to get our Members back to work.
“I’m optimistic that our Industry will come back stronger than ever, we just have to be patient. It will take a little while for people to get over their concerns and their fears. We are going to get back to work and we will get back to 100% employment.” – Secretary-Treasurer Steve Dayan
LISTEN HERE: COVID-19 – Teamster Strong
LOCAL 399 EMERGENCY RECOVERY FUND:
The Local 399 Emergency Recovery Fund will be officially launching this week, to be administered by the MPTF. If you have already contacted MPTF to start your application, you don’t need to do so again. I‘d like to remind you of the “Frequently Asked Questions” section outlining the fund so that you are aware of the eligibility requirements. We are grateful to the Motion Picture and Television Fund for managing this fund on behalf of our Members.
Click here to read ‘Frequently Asked Questions’ Section
A couple notes to mention:
• Due to the high volume of calls, the intake line provides a window of 5-7 days to return your call to begin your case.
• The Motion Picture and Television Fund is a non-profit organization that is working around the clock to support Entertainment Industry Workers in need. We know this is an extremely difficult and challenging time, however we ask that, just like any organization seeking to help during this pandemic, you treat MPTF case workers with the utmost respect and gratitude for their service and the time they spend to support those Members devastated by this pandemic.
• To Apply, call the MPTF INTAKE LINE: 323-634-3888
If there are any questions we can answer surrounding the fund, please do not hesitate to reach out.
SAFETY GUIDELINES UPDATE:
As mentioned before, the Entertainment Industry Unions are working together to compile comprehensive white paper safety guidelines as a first step in getting our Members back to work. We have been working throughout this weekend with the Studios to finalize national safety guidelines for local and state governments. Our Members safety is our number one priority, however we must continue our discussions about safety protocols while also protecting the jobs of those we represent.
SAVE THE DATE: We will be holding another Digital Townhall on June 9th and will be sending out a registration form this coming week. We will continue using this platform to keep our Members informed on the most recent updates from our Industry. Stay tuned.
TELL THE SENATE TO PASS THE EVERY WORKER PROTECTION ACT:
Hundreds of thousands of Teamsters are working on the front lines in the fight against COVID-19. They are treating patients, delivering essential goods, working in food processing plants, in warehouses to keep grocery store shelves stocked, and In so many other ways. Putting their lives at risk so that others remain safe and healthy.
The House recently passed legislation that protects workers with enforceable OSHA health and safety standards, whistleblower protections and funds to support state efforts to broadly test and trace infection. Now the Senate must take action to protect workers.
Tell your Senator to pass The Every Worker Protection Act (S.3677) which requires OSHA to issue enforceable worker safety standards. While we continue to do our essential jobs, we need to call on Congress to do its job to keep us safe.
TAKE ACTION NOW
IMMEDIATE FINANCIAL RELIEF:
If you and your family are in need of immediate financial assistance, don’t wait. Call the Motion Television Fund or the Actors Fund Today.
MOTION PICTURE TELEVISION FUND:
MPTF Intake Line: 323-634-3888
Call today. You will be assigned a MPTF case manager to walk through your specific and immediate needs. MPTF has been serving workers in the Motion Picture Industry since 1921. Take time to reach out if you need immediate financial help.
THE ACTORS FUND:
Actors Fund Today: 888.825.0911.
Call today. The Actors Fund, established in 1882, is for all workers in the Entertainment Industry. Take time to reach out if you need immediate financial help or services.
Learn more about the services and programs here: actorsfund.org/am-i-eligible-help
OPTUM & KAISER CRISIS HOTLINES:
Your well-being matters MOST. As this difficult situation continues and no matter how isolated you may feel, you do not need to face these challenges alone. There is hope. Powerful health resources and personalized support services are available right now. Live and Work Well is here to help you and those you care about find the balance, support and care you need to live the healthiest life possible.
OPTUM CRISIS HOTLINE: 1-800-273-8255
KAISER EMOTIONAL SUPPORT HOTLINE: (800) 900-3277
If an emergency, or you think you may harm yourself, please call 911.
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Thank you for your support over the past several weeks. Please let us know if there is anything more we can be doing to support you and your family at this time.
