IATSE President Matthew Loeb reelected, Charting a Course for Entertainment Worker Advocacy
Teh International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) recently concluded it’s 70th Quadrennial Convention in Honolulu, reaffirming its commitment to representing over 170,000 technicians, artisans, and craftspeople across the entertainment industry. A key outcome of the convention was the resounding reelection of President Matthew Loeb, signaling continued confidence in his leadership and vision for the future.
This convention wasn’t just about leadership elections. It was a dynamic forum where IATSE representatives tackled critical issues impacting entertainment professionals today. From navigating U.S.-Canada relations to championing diversity and inclusion, the discussions were focused on tangible improvements for members.
Leadership Team Solidified
Alongside President Loeb, the following were also reelected:
James B. Wood: General Secretary-Treasurer
13 International Vice Presidents
Three Trustees
One Delegate to the Canadian Labor Congress
The high attendance – 982 elected delegates - marked the largest participation in the union’s history, demonstrating a powerful surge of engagement from IATSE’s rank-and-file activists and local leaders. This energized group is poised to drive meaningful change within their respective jurisdictions.
Key Resolutions & Priorities for the Future
Delegates passed a series of resolutions designed to address the evolving challenges and opportunities within the entertainment landscape. Here’s a breakdown of the key areas of focus:
Federal Film & Television Incentive: Unanimous support for advocating a federal incentive to bolster the industry. This will help keep production in North America and create more jobs for IATSE members.
U.S.-Canada Trade: Dedicated support for Canadian members navigating the complexities of the ongoing U.S.-Canada trade conflict.
AI & Machine Learning: Proactive advocacy for protections and training to mitigate the potential displacement of entertainment workers due to the increasing deployment of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning. IATSE understands the need to prepare you for the future of work.
Diversity,Equity & Inclusion: A firm commitment to opposing discrimination and strengthening protections for the diverse workforce within the entertainment industry.
Pro-Union Legislation: active support for pro-union federal legislation, including the PRO Act, designed to strengthen workers’ rights. Production Accountant Unionization: A pledge to support the unionization efforts of Production accountants – a vital craft within the Motion Picture and Television Production Industry.
Modernized Governance: Constitutional updates were implemented to ensure inclusive language and modern governance practices.
VFX representation: A new membership designation was created for Visual Effects (VFX) workers,recognizing their growing importance and recent contract wins at major studios like Marvel,Disney,and Avatar. This is a critically important step in ensuring your voice is heard.
Acknowledging the Land & Honoring Indigenous Heritage
The convention began with a powerful acknowledgement by International Trustee Tuia’ana Scanlan,recognizing Hawaiʻi as an indigenous space and honoring the descendants who remain connected to the land,sea,and sky. This demonstrated IATSE’s commitment to respecting the cultural context of its gatherings.
Industry Leaders Weigh In
The convention also featured addresses from influential figures, including:
Hawaii Gov. Josh Green,M.D.
Congresswoman Jill Tokuda (D-Hawaii)
AFL-CIO President liz Shuler
International Brotherhood of Teamsters General President Sean O’Brien
American Federation of musicians (AFM) President Tino Gagliardi
Johannes Studinger, Head of UNI Media & Entertainment
These speakers underscored the importance of collective bargaining and worker advocacy in today’s economic climate.
Looking Ahead: A Renewed Commitment
As his initial election in 2008, President Loeb has overseen significant growth in IATSE’s membership, strengthened workplace protections, and advanced the interests of entertainment workers across North America and Canada.
“I am honored and humbled to continue the work we do together,” President Loeb stated. “Let’s seize this momentum, lock arms and get ready for the fights of the future.”
IATSE is clearly positioned to continue its vital role in advocating for the rights and well-being of the skilled professionals who bring the magic of entertainment to life.
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