With Broadway theatres shut down by New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo amid the deepening coronavirus crisis, the stage performers union Actors Equity called on government Thursday to help affected arts and entertainment workers as they face lost income, health insurance and retirement savings.
It’s the same issue confronting Hollywood industryites as well, with over 40 television shows announcing shutdowns or production acceleration in the last 12 hours.
“Equity members are dedicated professionals who earn their health care and pensions one week of work at a time,” Equity executive director Mary McColl said in a statement. “Today’s decision [by the governor] means tremendous uncertainty for thousands who work in the arts…. Now is the time for Congress and local governments to put workers first to ensure that everyone who works in the arts and entertainment sector has access to paid leave, health care and unemployment benefits.”
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