Grasie Mercedes
AFRO-LATINA ACTRESS, WRITER & FILMMAKER
“We will not back down and they can not survive without us.”
For those who might be unaware of what is going on, what is the reason behind actors and writers striking?
Both actors and writers are striking for a living wage, fair residuals, AI regulation, better health and pension plans and more. This is not a fight to get rich, this is a fight to once again be able to be a working actor or a working writer without struggle.
What are the demands that actors and writers seek?
For actors and writers, we both want streaming residuals that reflect the massive profit gains the content we create are generating, we want AI regulation and better health and pension plans. Separately actors also seek qualified hair and makeup professionals who know how to work with textured hair and various skin tones, we want to be able to work on hiatus when working as a principal performer and not be held captive by a studio, and we want self-tape regulation. Separtely writers also seek an end to mini rooms, an end to the massive cuts in episodic writing and an end to countless requests to write free drafts. These are some of the main asks from both unions but there are others.
In what ways does this strike change the relationship/dynamic between actors, writers and the industry?
As a member of both the WGA and SAG-AFTRA, seeing how the AMPTP has been responding to negotiations and us striking has been eye-opening, heart-breaking and infuriating. The lack of respect, appreciation and empathy for creatives has made for a very toxic dynamic. It seems the AMPTP with it's tech and very corporate model knows the price of everything and yet the value of nothing. We will not back down and they can not survive without us. They know this but don't care. They want to starve us into submission.
What are ways people can support actors and writers during this time? How can people properly advocate for actors and writers during this time?
People can support actors and writers by staying informed and if you can afford it, by providing water and snacks at pickets and joining them in line. You can also donate to one of the various WGA and SAG-AFTRA funds that provide emergency financial assistance and social services to actors and writers during this time.
How are you maintaining your creativity during this strike?
Honestly, it's sometimes hard to be creative when it feels like you're living through a creative pandemic. But I try to stay positive and connect with other artists in my circle. I'm acting in a SAG-AFTRA approved short film next month and doing a play. Both projects have helped my heart and are feeding my creativity.
How have you seen this strike impact other industries?
Absolutely. This strike is having a HUGE impact on so many industries from drivers, to caterers, costumers, prop houses and all members of crew who no longer have work either. Plus it's going to have an effect of the economy of Los Angeles as a whole. When people are broke they don't go out to restaurants or bars or shop for anything that's not a necessity. This strike is impacting way more people than just the members of the WGA and SAG-AFTRA.
