Business Manager’s Message – November 2023

Happy Thanksgiving from Local 40 

Brothers & Sisters,

Every year in November, as we spend time with our families, we reflect on all we have to be thankful for. This year, for many of our members, they were able to continue to work as the studio facilities, theme park and construction remained busy. But for the nearly 20 percent that work strictly on productions, there was little to no work opportunities as we witnessed historic labor actions in the motion picture industry. With the news of SAG-AFTRA coming to an agreement, we should return to full employment very soon.  

We congratulate the members of both WGA and SAG-AFTRA as they have won landmark deals for their members and the Hollywood labor movement. These deals set the table for our negotiations next summer, and make no doubt about it, we will look for our fair share at the bargaining table. We plan on actively and aggressively pursuing everything we can achieve. We will be looking to you and the entire membership for input. I encourage you to take our surveys, participate in any meetings, and reach out to us.  

Throughout labor’s history, the movement has led the way on key issues, such as 40-hour work weeks, safety, the Family and Medical Leave Act, employer-paid retirement and health coverage. And perhaps most importantly, union members typically earn 20 percent higher wages than non-union workers.  

Vice-President Reaves Visits Local 40 

Last week was National Apprenticeship Week, which aims to showcase the successes and value of apprenticeship programs, such as ours. On Wednesday last week, we were honored to host International Vice-President of the 9th District Dave Reaves, as he visited the Local 40 office, and greeted our first- and second-year apprentices. Vice-President Reaves spoke about the growth of the IBEW, the growth of the Local, and the resurgence of the labor movement. He also discussed how IBEW members will have no shortage of work opportunities with the CHIPS Act, the Inflation Reduction Act, and how important it is to stay involved in your local union. This was the first time we have had a Vice President visit our apprenticeship classes, and it was a huge honor to have him speak to our apprentices and future leaders.  

For anyone who may know someone interested in joining though our apprenticeship, we have applications for our Inside Construction agreement December 1-8. Visit our website for more information.  

Lean In and Lean On 

This year we have partnered with the Hollywood IATSE Locals, the Basic Crafts and Labor Community Services to provide up to 2,500 Thanksgiving meals to those who may need assistance this Thanksgiving. For those that have not been able to work, hopefully this was able to provide some assistance to you and your family.  

Lastly, I want to wish all of you a safe and Happy Thanksgiving.  

In Solidarity,

Stephan Davis
Business Manager & Financial Secretary