Across the country throughout September, members proudly marched side by side their union brothers and sisters showing their Equity pride.
In cities like Buffalo, Dallas, Detroit, Milwaukee and New York City, members took part in
their local Labor Day parades, proudly wearing Equity blue.
Corey Joseph Masklee, who just received his card on August 3, 2015, was marching for the first time in New York City. “I’m marching today because I’m proud to be here,” he said. “I’m proud to be a member.”
Walking with over 100 members, Masklee joined President Kate Shindle and Executive Director Mary McColl as they marched up NYC’s 5th Avenue singing renditions of “Give My Regards to Broadway,” “There’s No Business Like Show Business,” “Another Op’nin’, Another Show” and “Lullaby of Broadway.”
“The diversity at the parade was thrilling,” said Eastern Regional Vice President Melissa Robinette. “Everyone’s energy and hope was flying high!”
In the Buffalo area, liaison chair Don Gervasi marched with a dozen Equity members to show that professional actors and stage managers are in the area.
“We are proud to march every year alongside our other brothers and sisters, from electricians to state employees,” Gervasi said. “Unions matter and we welcome any opportunity we can get to show the public professionals do live and work in their communities.”
In Milwaukee, members marched with Equity’s musician and stage hands brothers and sisters.
“I was proud to march in a state where, and at a time when, many people need to be reminded that unions work for the betterment of all working conditions,” said member Kathi Karol Koenig.
A reminder that Actors’ Equity stands up for it members, those walking in the parades proudly shouted “Equity works!”
"It's incredibly important for our members, who know they've joined a union but don't always feel connected to the broader labor movement, to be able to witness the solidarity and community firsthand,” said Shindle. “Plus, it's fun. We've been trying some new outreach strategies in the past few months, which resulted in a record turnout and a terrific social media presence — our new Councilor Tonya Pinkins was Periscoping like crazy. I plan to need twice as many t-shirts next year!"
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