Business Manager’s Message – August 2024
USH Agreement Ratified, Second Landmark Agreement This Year
Brothers & Sisters,
As summer draws to a close, many of us have watched our children return to school, and with Labor Day just around the corner, it’s time to reflect on what this day truly signifies. In the Labor movement, Labor Day is more than just a holiday—it’s a powerful reminder of Union Solidarity and our unwavering commitment to fight for the rights of working people.
Over the past 18 months, we’ve witnessed remarkable solidarity that has led to unprecedented success at the bargaining table. Our Local has achieved victories that once seemed out of reach, proving the strength of our collective resolve.
Today, we celebrate a historic milestone. The Universal Supplemental Agreement was ratified with an overwhelming 89.66% “YES” vote. This victory was achieved by the power of the members standing together and united in our goals. We did not back down or waver, and we fought relentlessly for the contract we deserved. The bargaining committees for both this agreement and the Motion Picture Agreement did an extraordinary job, and their efforts cannot be understated.
These agreements mark a new chapter in our history, with historic gains. Most notably, we secured a 7% wage increase in the first year of both agreements—the largest increase since 1984. To put this in perspective, over one-third of our membership wasn’t even born the last time we saw such a significant raise. Out of nearly 1,000 active members, only 27 were members of our Local when we last achieved an increase of this magnitude. Further, the Supplemental Agreement was first added as a supplement to the Basic Agreement in 1982. Since that very first agreement over 40 years ago, this unit has not seen anything near this wage increase. These achievements are the result of our united resolve as members, alongside our brothers and sisters in other Hollywood Unions and Guilds.
We also added an 11th holiday, Juneteenth, in both agreements. From 1997 to 2021, we fought tirelessly to have Martin Luther King Jr. Day recognized, and in the last two contracts, we have been able to secure these two additional holidays. We’ve also secured pension increases and maintained our outstanding healthcare benefits—all without any additional cost to our members! Another long-sought victory was the inclusion of the 401k in the Basic Agreement, a goal we’ve pursued for decades. Already, many members have expressed interest, and we aim to have this benefit available by next summer. Join us at the General Membership on October 23rd, as we will be hosting an educational meeting about the 401k and grilling hamburgers.
This Labor Day, as we enjoy the day with our families, let’s remember the power we hold as union members and the importance of staying engaged. Together, we are unstoppable.
Mark Your Calendars for These Can’t-Miss Events!
On Saturday, September 7th, join thousands of union members as we take over Dodger Stadium as the Dodgers face off against the Cleveland Guardians. This is more than just a baseball game—it’s a show of union pride and solidarity. We have a few tickets left, so don’t miss your chance to be part of this incredible night. Click or tap here to secure your spot and join us at the ballpark!
But that’s not all! On Sunday, November 10th, come out to the beautiful Calamigos Ranch for the MPTF Day at the Ranch Picnic. This event isn’t just a picnic—it’s a day filled with fun, camaraderie, and purpose. As we gather to support the Motion Picture & Television Fund, union members and their families from across the Motion Picture Industry will enjoy a day of food, activities, and connection. You don’t want to miss this special event. Click here to see a video from last year’s picnic.
In Solidarity,
Stephan Davis
Business Manager
Financial Secretary
