IATSE Voting Today Whether To Join WGA And SAG-AFTRA In Strike

The International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees, Moving Picture Technicians, Artists and Allied Crafts of the United States, Its Territories and Canada (IATSE) is voting today on whether to join the WGA and SAG-AFTRA on strike.

The union was founded in 1893, and encompasses approximately 168,000 workers, with nearly 1,500 working on New York City’s Broadway productions. Union members work in a variety of crafts across the entertainment industry, from stage technology to wardrobe and hair and makeup. There are currently 45 theatrical shows, 28 productions, and 17 tours on Broadway, according to the Hollywood Reporter.

Should IATSE vote to move ahead with the strike, the union would join the already historic double strike between the WGA and SAG-AFTRA. The latter two unions last went on strike together 60 years ago, when SAG-AFTRA was lead by former U.S. President Ronald Reagan. Actress Fran Drescher serves as the current union president.

A triple strike would essentially result in a near total industry blackout. The three unions have never been on strike at the same time. Compared to the other two, IATSE has made some progress towards securing health benefits for workers. However, the group aims to keep pushing for fairer wages and daily rest periods with a possible strike. 75% of the union needs to vote in favor of a strike for it to begin.

Internet Reactions

IATSE members are taking to Twitter and TikTok to explain the role of the union in the entertainment industry, and the reason for the strike.

IATSE LOCAL 798, the Makeup and Hairstylist of Broadway have been in negotiations since November 2022, they’re asking for our attention on their fight as well. This is across all industries! pic.twitter.com/zcGCmBbgpQ

— Caroline “WGA Captain on Strike” Renard (@carolinerenard_) July 19, 2023

Similarly to the struggles of the WGA and SAG-AFTRA, COVID-19 and inflation changed the industry, and the living wages required by workers. The union’s explanation for the strike was largely met with support.

I heard about this last night. More people are getting fed up with being asked to accept less from industries than can afford to give them more.

— Carolyn Hinds ???????? #WGAStrike #SAGAFTRAStrike✊???? (@CarrieCnh12) July 19, 2023

Onlookers watch on as history is made with the string of strikes.

Oh it’s hot strike summer https://t.co/DYbHVr9fqL

— Ira (@iramadisonthree) July 19, 2023

Many IATSE members have worked on both the stage and in film and television. Some west coast members are striking in solidarity with the other powerful entertainment unions.

WHY I’M STRIKING: “I’m in solidarity with writers and the actors…” — Dan Vetanovetz, IATSE 728 #ActorsStrike #WritersStrike pic.twitter.com/jkaLp1GrPr

— Deadline Hollywood (@DEADLINE) July 14, 2023

Burbank Mayor Konstantine Anthony joined the strikers and spoke to a representative for SAG-AFTRA live from the picket line.

WHY #SOLIDARITY? Burbank Mayor Konstantine Anthony says it's "not just for us."

Being #SAGAFTRAstrong uplifts IATSE, DGA, animators, voiceovers and EVERY OTHER INDUSTRY.

Thank you for joining the #SAGAFTRAstrike picket line today! pic.twitter.com/j57xYx9rd2

— SAG-AFTRA (@sagaftra) July 15, 2023

Outside of the major unions, several grassroots organizations are continuing to raise money for those impacted financially by the strike.

We don't see the studios raising money for IATSE and @Teamsters crew during the ongoing strikes, but you know who is?

The Union Solidarity Coalition (TUSC), a grassroots group of writers, directors, and actors raising $ through a new @MPTF fund. 1st fundraiser on 7/15 in LA. pic.twitter.com/5VYJm0IR6u

— IATSE // #IASolidarity (@IATSE) July 13, 2023

Creative signs continue to catch the eye of California and New York drivers from the picket lines.