New York -- Actors’ Equity Association, the national labor union representing more than 51,000 professional actors and stage managers in live theatre, has issued a statement in response to Rep. Pramila Jayapal introducing a single-payer health care bill.
“So many theatre professionals have lost their insurance through no fault of their own since the industry shut down. Health care is a human right, and Equity hopes that this bill will make that value a reality,” said Brandon Lorenz, national director of communications and public policy for Actors’ Equity Association. “We applaud Rep. Jayapal for her leadership.”
Background: Equity began calling for a COBRA subsidy as unemployment began to skyrocket in the arts and entertainment sector in April. Over 4,900 Equity members and supporters signed a petition calling for the subsidy, which finally became reality in the America Rescue Plan Act.
ACTORS' EQUITY ASSOCIATION, founded in 1913, is the U.S. labor union that represents more than 51,000 professional actors and stage managers. Equity endeavors to advance the careers of its members by negotiating wages, improving working conditions and providing a wide range of benefits (health and pension included). Member: AFL-CIO, FIA. www.actorsequity.org #EquityWorks
March 19, 2021
###
