On April 12, SAG-AFTRA called for an end to auditions and interviews in private hotel rooms and residences.
Defined as an expansion to the Code of Conduct that the union published in February, “Guideline No. 1” specifically states that, “we call on producers and other decision makers with influence or control over decisions that can impact a career, to STOP holding professional meetings in these high-risk locations and find alternative, appropriate locations for professional meetings.”
Other sections of the document encouraged members to take a “support peer” to interviews and auditions that are unable to offer a “reasonable alternative forum,” and a recommendation that “all stakeholders … review and implement policies that are consistent with this Guideline.”
The Code of Conduct is part of a larger SAG-AFTRA initiative — the “Four Pillars of Change” — that aims to combat harassment and create workplace equality in the film and entertainment industries.
When Four Pillars was launched, the union indicated that it would “periodically issue additional Guidelines to provide further insight into steps that members and industry partners can take to expand workplace safety in our industry.”
In a press release, SAG-AFTRA President Gabrielle Carteris said, “We are committed to addressing the scenario that has allowed predators to exploit performers behind closed doors under the guise of a professional meeting.”
To view the entire document, click here.
