IATSE_1stQrtr_2018_web

PRESIDENT’S NEWSLETTER
Time For Change
For far too long women in our society have struggled for equality and a safe,
harassment free workplace. Recent events and widely publicized instances
of sexual harassment in the workplace have highlighted the need to deal with
these matters here and now. It will take all of us to agitate for change and
insist, as a matter of course, that women (and all people) are treated fairly.
@matthewloeb
MATTHEW D. LOEB
This means a safe and secure work environment, but also
focuses on gender pay equity, equal access to move up in
careers and equal respect that creates the dignity inherent in
real equality.
Courageous women have made tremendous efforts
and progress toward solving the many problems created by
inequality, both in the workplace and society at large. Many
courageous men have stepped up along the way. However, it
is now time for men to step up, own up and show up for the
fight in a concerted and more meaningful way. We, as men,
must insist on equal rights, equal pay, equal opportunity and
equal protection. There can be no compromise to what is fair
and right. The time has come for a full-on assault against all
fairness and dignity. We must teach our girls that they are
leaders, powerful, essential and worthy. We must teach our
boys about dignity, respect and equality. We must build ethical
standards through examples of good deeds, forward thinking,
action and behavior that models personal responsibility that
can shape the future. We must demand fairness and accept
no less.
The reasons to commit to this fight are not complicated.
We can see injustice before our eyes. To look away makes us
complicit in the act. Our mothers, wives, sisters, daughters and
best friends are the heart and soul of this society. Humanity
dictates that we, as men, be part of the solution. So, we must
act to create equality and fairness that will ultimately benefit
types of discrimination and men must be a central part of the
solution.
For a real cultural and societal change to occur we must
lead by example and teach those who will come after us about
everyone, regardless of their gender. I, for one, as leader of this
great union intend to continue to do just that. As in everything
we gain it is our strength through solidarity that carries the
day. Let’s lock arms Sisters and Brothers. Now is the time.
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FIRST QUARTER 2018 5