by Guild Staff
The Motion Picture Editors Guild (IATSE Local 700) recently brought members together on both coasts for hybrid Town Hall meetings, followed by in-person mixers at the Guild’s Los Angeles and New York offices.
The August 16th gathering marked the first nationwide Town Hall since Local 700’s change of leadership earlier this year, and post-production professionals the chance to hear union updates, ask questions, and engage directly with National Executive Director Scott George and other Guild leaders. Between members who showed up in-person and those who joined remotely, hundreds of Guild members were in attendance.
“Every craft, large or small, is fundamental to this Guild, and every member deserves to be a priority. We solve problems best when we tackle them together,” George told members in his remarks.
George presented slides that showed the falloff in contract hours worked and the Guild’s membership since the film and TV production slowdown started in 2023 (see slides). But he pointed to some signs of hope, including tax incentives designed to make California production more competitive, as well as contract enforcement efforts that are ensuring producers meet the standards set out in negotiated contracts.
He pointed to a developing shop steward program and a Know Your Rights initiative – designed to educate members about their contracts – as positive steps the Guild is taking in the midst of the work slowdown.
“We’re in a tough stretch,” George said. “But we have tools. We have talent. We have a track record of winning when we stay united and focused. Let’s use this moment to re-commit: to enforcement, to organizing, to political action, and to each other.”
Following the meetings, members gathered at in-person mixers at both offices. In Los Angeles, George stayed after the session to continue conversations, addressing member concerns and highlighting key initiatives. On the East Coast, the Guild’s newly hired organizer, Micah Landau, introduced himself to attendees and spoke about ongoing and future organizing efforts in the region.
Both events drew strong attendance and featured refreshments and networking opportunities, highlighting Local 700’s effort to foster connection and accessibility across time zones. Guild staff noted that the format—blending hybrid meetings with in-person mixers—reflects an ongoing push for transparency, member engagement, and a sense of community.
Local 700 plans to continue hosting hybrid meetings and member events throughout the year, ensuring members nationwide have opportunities to take part in the conversation and strengthen connections within the post-production community.
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