What is the relationship of AFTRA to the AFL-CIO and organized labor?
For decades, AFTRA was affiliated with the AFL-CIO through the organization called the “4A’s”, which stands for the Associated Actors and Artistes of America. In addition to AFTRA, the other unions in the 4A’s are SAG, [Actors’] Equity, AGMA, and AGVA. In February, 2008, AFTRA received a direct charter from the AFL-CIO, which was a monumental action. AFTRA now sits at the AFL-CIO as an equal partner to other unions in terms of participation, support and action. This is the difference between having to ask for the keys to the car (affiliation) as opposed to owning the car and having the keys in your pocket (direct charter). AFTRA members now have a greater voice in decisions affecting performers and unions in our country, particularly since we are such a unique union within the AFL-CIO. If I were sitting down with a young recording artist in an indie band, what should I tell them about the benefits of AFTRA membership? Tell that Artist that AFTRA is fighting to put money in their pocket
