B.C. actors accept contract with harassment protections
B.C. performers in film, television and new media voted overwhelmingly to ratify a new contract that includes what their union is calling “precedent setting” protections against sexual harassment.
On Tuesday, the Union of B.C. Performers and Alliance of Canadian Cinema, Television and Radio Artists announced their members voted 94 per cent in favour of accepting the tentative deal put forward early this month.
The contract includes a rate increase of nine per cent over the life of the agreement, which runs from 2018 to 2021. The new contract will take effect April 1.
It also includes language that bans auditions or meetings in private hotel rooms or residences where a performer is alone with a production member. According to the union, that represents “the most up-to-date provisions negotiated into any performer collective agreement.”
The move comes as instances of sexual abuse and harassment by powerful figures in the industry are coming to light.
“With this agreement we are not just improving protections for our members — we are setting a new standard for the entire industry,” said Alvin Sanders, UBCP/ACTRA president. “Performers must be free to focus on their work without fear of sexual harassment.”
The contract also includes protections for performers who have worked long or late shifts, requiring productions to ensure there are alternatives provided instead of forcing the performer to drive.
Negotiations with the Canadian Affiliates of the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) and the Canadian Media Production Association, B.C. Producers’ Branch (CMPA) wrapped on Dec. 1.
The UBCP is the B.C. branch of ACTRA, which represents 22,000 members across Canada.
Hollywood has seen big name performers such as Rose McGowan, Terry Crews and Salma Hayek step forward to identify their equally well known alleged assailants. The allegations have sparked the #MeToo movement.
Last month, Andrew Kreisberg, executive producer of several Vancouver-filmed CW superhero shows, was fired following allegations of sexual harassment.