How to Support AFTRA

AFTRA is the American Federation of Television and Radio Artists. The national labor union has more than 70,000 members. Musical performers, journalists and other entertainment artists are members. Some of the more famous members include actress Morgan Fairchild, Bob Edwards an award-winning broadcaster with NPR and singer Martha Reeves. AFTRA negotiates and enforces contracts for performers. The union also advocates for legislation affecting its members. Read on to learn how to support AFTRA.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Get involved. AFTRA belongs to its members and is only as strong as their combined voices. The union holds numerous programs, seminars and events annually. Newsletters and emails frequently go out to members with details.

2. Know the issues. AFTRA is a powerful lobbying group. It has worked on legislation regarding OSHA and safety regulations, Equal Employment Opportunity laws, ownership consolidation and copyright issues.

3. Lobby for legislative changes. Whether it's re-negotiating a contract for a local news anchor or your favorite soap star, AFTRA advocates for its members' rights. The union has tackled issues such as royalties for music downloaded online and increased fines on television and radio broadcast stations for indecency. Make sure your legislators know you're behind the issues they're pushing for.

4. Lend support. The best way, as a member of the public, to protect your favorite performer is to write letters to the TV station or network. Sending letters of support to news anchors, news directors, radio personalities or networks goes a long way during the re-negotiation phase.

Resources

• AFTRA Website