Words by Tess Becker
Hollywood has slowed down to a standstill following the SAG-AFTRA and WGA strikes where about 200,000 people in the entertainment industry, including actors, recording artists, radio personalities, writers, and other media professionals are striking for better pay and working conditions as well as contracts that include provisions on artificial intelligence.
“We stand in solidarity in unprecedented unity. Our union and our sister unions and the unions around the world are standing by us, as well as other labor unions. Because at some point, the jig is up. You cannot keep being dwindled and marginalized, disrespected and dishonored,” SAG-AFTRA president Fran Drescher said in a speech at a press conference.
While the strike persists, almost 200,000 entertainment professionals are without a sufficient source of income.
To help the striking union members a food bank on Venice Boulevard in Los Angeles, California is committing to feeding them for free.
“🛒 FREE GROCERIES FOR SAG- AFTRA actors and WGA writers until the end of the strike!🛒,” actor, comedian, writer, and self-described “food bank influencer” Kristina Wong posted on Instagram. “This is a totally real offer to get our union siblings through this historic fight for our livelihoods!”
Wong and Glen Curado, CEO and founder of the food bank World Harvest, came up with together in response to the first joint walkout of these two labor unions since 1960.
The food bank will provide up to $300 in groceries, all they need to do is show up Monday through Saturday and show staff their SAG-AFTRA or WGA card.
Charity check-in
At Smiley Movement, we like to elevate the work of charities across the world. Here are three charities whose causes align with the themes in this article.
The Women Invested to Save Earth Fund. This organization helps support underrepresented and underfunded Black, indigenous, and women of color-led organizations across the world. Find out more and support them here.
Giraffe Conservation Foundation. They help nonprofits protect and conserve giraffes. Check them out here.
The Life You Can Save. An organization that helps mobilize aid to regions affected by malaria. Find out more.
