Los Angeles, CA (October 9, 2007)—An open statement of unity signed by 248 performers who are members of the American Federation of Television and Radio Artists and Screen Actors Guild will be published in major trade publications this week.

“We, as members of the American Federation of Television and Radio Artists and the Screen Actors Guild, appeal to our fellow actors to come together with one strong voice through both of our unions as negotiations approach,” affirmed members in the statement that calls on all performers to “recognize and embrace the diversity of opinions that exist in our community of actors…; keep Phase One…in place as it has been since 1981 with one member, one vote…; [and] continue to work toward merger of our two unions.”

After receiving the open statement generated by a grassroots effort of members of both unions, AFTRA was moved to purchase full-page ads in this week’s “Back Stage” and the Wednesday editions of “The Hollywood Reporter” and “Variety.”

“AFTRA commends and applauds these courageous performers who are standing up for unity,” said AFTRA National President Roberta Reardon. “AFTRA supports and encourages the non-partisan efforts of working performers across the country to come together with one strong voice through both AFTRA and SAG to build strength at the bargaining table.”

Performers who signed the open statement include a wide range of working actors and current and former elected leadership of both AFTRA and SAG. Former SAG National Presidents Melissa Gilbert, Barry Gordon, Richard Masur, and William Schallert and current AFTRA National President Roberta Reardon signed the statement, in addition to many performers on cable TV shows covered by AFTRA contracts.

Note: Download a PDF of the UNITY STATEMENT ad (1 MB) HERE.