Source: https://www.billboard.com/music/music-news/hollywood-actors-strike-ends-sag-deal-1235467188/

Lights, Camera, Strike: The 2023 Hollywood Strikes

Background Guide coming soon!


Welcome to the 2023 SAG-AFTRA Hollywood Strike Committee! As digital media revolutionizes the entertainment industry, the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) and major studios find themselves at a crossroads. Central to their negotiations are issues including fair compensation, the treatment and security of gig economy workers, enhanced residuals for streaming content, and protection against new industry practices, such as the use of AI in performances.

The 2023 strike represents the broader struggles within the creative industry adapting to technological disruption. It raises questions about the sustainability of current business models, the fair distribution of profits generated from digital platforms, and the rights of creatives in an increasingly fragmented market.

In this committee, you will assume the roles of contemporary actors, studio executives, union leaders, and other key industry players navigating the challenges and opportunities presented by streaming services, digital media, and consumer viewing habits tasked with drafting a new contract that addresses the union members' demands.

Prepare to influence the future of Hollywood. Will you advocate for drastic reforms to adapt to the new digital reality, or will you champion a more conservative approach that prioritizes stability in the industry? Will you redefine how the industry compensates its talent in the digital era, or will the old guard maintain its grip?

The decisions made here could either lead to a groundbreaking agreement that shapes the future of entertainment or a stalemate with severe implications. The stage is set for a negotiation in the 2023 SAG-AFTRA Hollywood Strike Committee.





Joanna Zhu

Chair

Hi everyone, I am Joanna Zhu, a junior at UC Berkeley, double majoring in Applied Math and Political Economy with a minor in Data Science. I come from Shanghai, China. I love sports - I play volleyball, basketball, tennis. I love fashion and being a model. I also enjoy writing down my thoughts and reflections, traveling around the world and understanding different cultures, and exploring nature through hiking adventures. For me, the biggest joy comes from trying and learning new things – I want to live without limits.

With my background in mock trials and BP debate, I began my MUN journey as a freshman, fueled by my interest in international relations and cross-cultural communication. I've competed as a GA delegate and served as vice-chair twice. It's my ultimate honor to serve as your chair this time!

Strike culture is a novel concept from my conservative upbringing. I find it fascinating how unions were able to mobilize even the most high-profile celebrities to champion their cause and achieve significant outcomes. I encourage each of you to really understand the motivations and strategies of the various stakeholders involved. I am looking forward to seeing: 1) well-researched and substantial presentations, 2) creative and unconventional ideas; and 3) clashes between delegates, groups, or conflicting interests. I can’t wait to engage with the committee and learn from all of you. See you in committee!

Best
Joanna Zhu
Chair, Lights, Camera, Strike: The 2023 Hollywood Strikes


Sara Khemani

Chair

Hey everyone! My name is Sara Khemani and I am so excited to be your chair for the 2023 Hollywood Strikes Committee! I am originally from Bombay, India but spent most of my life growing up in Singapore! I am currently a junior majoring in Molecular & Cell Biology (Immunology and Molecular Medicine) and Political Economy and minoring in Neuroscience. I have been a part of Model UN since middle school and joined UCBMUN as a freshman at Berkeley. I also serve as the Secretary General of our high school conference, BearMUN and compete primarily as a GA del! On campus, outside of MUN, I am also involved in an electron microscopy lab, do rare disease research with Professor Bertozzi, and am also in a healthcare business society. I love traveling, going to beaches, and trying new restaurants and cafes. I am so eager to meet you all in February and hope you are looking forward to learning more about the SAG - AFTRA strikes.

Best,
Sara Khemani
Chair, Lights, Camera, Strike: The 2023 Hollywood Strikes