Production Assistants on CBS' 'Cupertino' Vote to Unionize with LiUNA Local 724
Production assistants on the forthcoming CBS legal drama "Cupertino" have unanimously elected to join LiUNA Local 724, signifying a pivotal moment for labor rights within the entertainment industry. This successful vote represents the first triumph for the Production Assistants United movement, an organization affiliated with LiUNA Local, within a CBS Studios production. Out of 25 eligible production assistants, 13 cast their votes in favor of unionizing during the National Labor Relations Board election, with three ballots under challenge.
The production assistants involved in the project released a statement highlighting the importance of their collective decision, emphasizing the strength of their unified voice and the pressing need for reform in the entertainment sector. They conveyed their eagerness to commence negotiations for their inaugural contract, anticipating improvements in working conditions and benefits. "Cupertino," scheduled for a fall premiere, features Mike Colter as a former lawyer who, after being defrauded by his previous employer, establishes a legal practice alongside another attorney. Their mission is to champion the rights of individuals against powerful tech corporations. Although the series is set in Silicon Valley, its first season was filmed in New Jersey. This union victory for "Cupertino" stands out, as most previous successes for the Production Assistants United movement have been with Warner Bros. Television and Universal Television productions. The next critical step involves the union engaging with CBS Studios to draft their first collective bargaining agreement.
Historically, contracts secured by Production Assistants United have included vital provisions such as health coverage, guaranteed minimum pay rates, holiday benefits, and the establishment of committees dedicated to exploring career advancement opportunities for these entry-level professionals. Ethan Ravens, Director of Organizing for Production Assistants United, affirmed the ongoing momentum, stating, "Show by show and studio by show, PAs are consistently choosing union representation through LiUNA Local 724." He underscored that the "Cupertino" triumph is merely the latest in a series of victories, with more expected in the future. This move by the production assistants underscores a growing trend towards stronger labor protections and equitable treatment for workers in the evolving landscape of film and television production.
The unanimous decision by the production assistants of "Cupertino" to unionize reflects a powerful call for fairness and respect in the workplace. Their proactive step not only secures better conditions for themselves but also sets a precedent for others in the industry, proving that collective action can lead to meaningful change and a more just working environment for all.
