November 21, 2024
DGA members living and working in the Midwest came together to network with their peers and hear updates about their Guild during the 2024 general membership meeting in Chicago. Hosted by the Chicago Coordinating Committee (CCC) on November 21, the evening was part of the DGA’s ongoing efforts to serve members residing outside Los Angeles and New York and provided an opportunity to meet DGA President Lesli Linka Glatter, who served as the keynote speaker. The gathering was also attended by DGA National Executive Director Russell Hollander and Field Representative Brett Wise.
Following a cocktail reception and welcomes by CCC Co-Chairs UPM Richard S. Lederer and Director Thomas Wekony, Jr., Glatter began by speaking about her personal love for the city of Chicago and her fond memories of working there. She thanked the Committee for their work on behalf of the membership and acknowledged the work of Hollander and the rest of the DGA staff in supporting DGA members both there in Chicago and around the globe.
Speaking about where the Guild believes the industry is headed, Glatter assured the members saying, “While no one knows for certain when or how we will settle into a new normal, you should all take comfort in knowing that the Guild understands this is a difficult time, and we are hard at work protecting your jobs and making sure you are compensated the money you are owed. The DGA has always made sure our members have been protected and profited from each innovation. Today, our fights might look a little different, but the role of the DGA remains the same.”
Sharing details on how the Guild has been focused on things like improving production incentives to keep work close to where our members live, ensuring that residuals are collected, processed and paid in record time and working on issues related to Artificial Intelligence, she told the attendees, “It's going to take a lot of work to make sure we’re successful in all these areas – from negotiations to contract enforcement. But we thank you all for your ongoing support of the Guild, and for the trust you place in us.”
Speaking specifically of the area, Glatter, spoke about the growth of the industry in Chicago and said, “Not surprisingly, our member community here reflects the special qualities that make Chicago the special place that it is. We are part of a tight knight labor community here, where we work closely with our sister unions through our participation on the Illinois Production Alliance, lobbying for a strong State Tax Incentive. And of course, all of you who came here tonight, marking our annual tradition of celebrating the DGA in Chicago.”
“I’d like to close by inviting you to be a part of changing our future for the next generation. We welcome and want your feedback, advice and counsel as we move forward.”
Following President Glatter’s address, the meeting attendees were then able to chat informally with her, National Executive Director Hollander and Field Rep Wise over dinner and drinks.
About the Committee:
The Chicago Coordinating Committee was formed in the mid-1960s to coordinate Guild activities in the Chicago Area, including acting as liaison between members and the Guild, disseminating information, and promoting public awareness of the Guild. The Committee is Co-Chaired by Director Thomas Wekony, Jr. and UPM Richard S. Lederer.
photos by Jeff Kash