The International Brotherhood of Teamsters is stepping up to support their fellow members impacted by the ongoing Writers Guild of America strike. With the strike now in its 56th day, the IBT has approved a $2 million fund to provide financial assistance to motion picture Teamsters. The aid package was unanimously approved by the IBT’s General Executive Board, with Teamsters general president Sean O’Brien stating, “We can’t rely on employers to protect and support our members. Teamsters protect Teamsters. This money will go to support hardworking families.”
Lindsay Dougherty, Director of the Teamsters Motion Picture and Theatrical Trade Division and Western Region Vice President, expressed her disappointment in the studios and tech companies for playing games with people’s livelihoods. She added, “We are committed to making sure our members are protected and getting this money into their hands as soon as possible.” Dougherty, who is also secretary-treasurer and chief executive office of Hollywood’s Teamsters Local 399, is determined to ensure that the fund reaches those who need it most.
The IBT has announced that the Motion Picture and Theatrical Trade Division will create a fund with eligibility requirements for all Teamster members who work in the film and TV industry and wish to apply for financial assistance. This move follows IATSE’s approval of a similar $2 million fund earlier this month to help their members in need of financial assistance due to the strike.
It’s not just WGA members who are affected by the strike, and the WGA and several of its prominent members have recognized this. J.J. Abrams, Greg Berlanti, Adam McKay, Ryan Murphy, Shonda Rhimes, Mike Schur, and John Wells donated $1.7 million to the Entertainment Community Fund on May 10 to help non-WGA members during the strike. The industry is coming together to support one another during this difficult time.
