IATSE 70th Quadrennial Convention

A Diary: by Whit Norris CAS

On Saturday afternoon, July 26, I attended an education session titled “Building Resilient Local Unions.” This session focused on how Locals can adapt and thrive during times of change—whether that shifts in technology, economic challenges, or evolving industry structures. The discussion highlighted practical strategies for strengthening member engagement, improving communication, and creating long-term stability. I found it particularly valuable to hear how other Locals are addressing similar issues and to think about ways we might apply those ideas within our own. It was an inspiring way to kick off the week and a reminder that resilience isn’t just about responding to challenges—it’s about preparing for the future together.

Delegate Orientation and Saturday Evening Events
Before the convention officially began, I attended the Delegate Orientation on Saturday evening. This session was designed to welcome Delegates, explain the structure of the week ahead, and outline how the convention operates—from committee work to voting procedures and floor discussions. It was a helpful refresher and a good opportunity to meet fellow Delegates in a more informal setting before the busy week kicked off.

After orientation, I stopped by two evening gatherings—one hosted by the Art Directors Guild Local 800 and another for the Young Delegates. Both were laid-back and welcoming, giving everyone a chance to connect, share stories, and build new relationships before the convention officially got underway.

District Meetings
The District meetings were held on Sunday, July 27, and they really set the tone for the week. It was a chance for Locals from all over to come together in one place and have honest conversations about what’s happening in our regions. We shared updates, compared notes, and talked through some of the challenges we’re each facing—things like organizing, legislative priorities, and how we’re training the next generation.

One of the more meaningful parts of the day was reviewing and accepting resolutions. Even though the work is procedural, it’s where we make decisions that help guide what we focus on moving forward. I always appreciate these meetings because they remind me that, even though our Locals may deal with very different day-to-day issues, we’re united by common goals. That shared purpose—and the collaboration it sparks—is what makes the District meetings so valuable.

That evening, I attended the Political Action Committee (PAC) Fundraiser for IATSE International at the Sheraton Waikiki pool. It was a relaxed and enjoyable event with a serious purpose—raising funds to support legislative efforts that protect and advance workers’ rights. It also offered a great chance to connect with members and leaders from across the country in a more informal setting, all while supporting the important political work that helps strengthen our union’s voice.

Convention Overview
The Quadrennial Convention officially kicked off on Monday, July 28, at the Sheraton Waikiki. Walking into a room with more than 950 Delegates was something to take in—the energy, the conversations, and the collective purpose were all palpable. It was the largest IATSE convention ever, and the theme, “Solidarity, Security, Prosperity,” was front and center in nearly every speech and discussion that followed.

The lineup of speakers was impressive and inspiring. Hawaii Governor Josh Green and Congresswoman Jill Tokuda spoke passionately about the importance of labor in their state. Liz Shuler from the AFL-CIO and Sean O’Brien from the Teamsters gave powerful calls for unity—a reminder that, as labor organizations, we’re stronger when we stand shoulder to shoulder.

There were also deeply thoughtful conversations from Annette Bening and Joseph Benincasa with the Entertainment Community Fund, and a broader look at the international landscape from Bea Bruske of the Canadian Labour Congress and Johannes Studinger from UNI Global. Russell Hollander and Lesli Linka Glatter of the DGA shared great insight into how collaboration across crafts is essential to the future of our industry. Hearing from Tino Gagliardi and Bruce Raynor helped put into perspective the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for the labor movement.

A key point that kept coming up—and one that stuck with me—was the push for a national film and entertainment tax incentive. It’s something our industry desperately needs, and the fact that it was echoed over and over again made it clear that this is going to be a major focus for IATSE moving forward.

As the week went on, the schedule continued to reflect the depth and importance of the work being done. Thursday was a significant day, as it included the nomination of officers—a process that underscored the democratic foundation of our union and the trust we place in our leadership.

Friday, the final day of the Convention, was devoted to celebrating our members and their contributions. Several honors were presented, including the Retired Officers Award, the International President’s Award, the Outstanding Young Leaders Award, and the Outstanding Women’s Leader Award. These moments highlighted the dedication, leadership, and hard work that keep IATSE strong.

The Convention concluded with the obligation of officers, followed by closing remarks from all those newly elected. The atmosphere was one of optimism and unity as we looked ahead to the challenges and opportunities before us. With a motion to adjourn, the 70th Quadrennial Convention officially came to a close—leaving everyone with a renewed sense of purpose and solidarity.

Motion Picture Caucus & Industry Outlook
One of the most insightful sessions for me personally was the Motion Picture Caucus led by International Vice President Mike Miller and his team. They walked us through the current state of the industry—the impact of corporate mergers, how streaming continues to reshape production, and why certain projects have slowed.

What was most encouraging was their confidence in our union’s position. Despite all the changes, IATSE continues to maintain strong jurisdiction in both the U.S. and Canada. And while the next round of negotiations will certainly present challenges, it was reassuring to see how thoroughly the International is preparing. I left that session feeling optimistic about where we’re headed.

Building Solidarity & Connections
Outside of the meetings and speeches, one of the most rewarding parts of the week was the chance to connect with members and leaders from other Locals. The President’s Reception and Official Family Reception offered space for conversations that don’t always happen on the convention floor—talking about shared challenges, exchanging ideas, and even just getting to know the people who are working toward the same goals in other parts of the country.

Exhibits and Industry Partners
One of the things I really enjoyed during the week was spending some time at the exhibits set up outside the main Convention Hall. There were booths from the Entertainment Community Fund, Classic Incentives, Honest Ballot, several IATSE committees, the IATSE Education Department, MPI, the National Benefits Fund, Union Plus, and the Hollywood Commission, among others.

It was a great chance to chat with the people behind these organizations and learn more about the services and support they offer our members. We work alongside many of them in one way or another throughout the year, but getting to meet them face-to-face and put names to those connections made it feel more personal and meaningful. I would also like to thank our Business Representative, Scott Bernard, for introducing me to one of our representatives from MPI—that connection was both helpful and informative.

Memorable Moments & Final Reflections
There’s one moment from the week I won’t forget: the tsunami scare on Tuesday. Thankfully, it ended up being nothing serious, but it was a vivid reminder of how quickly things can change. What impressed me most was how calmly everyone handled the situation—Delegates supported one another, checked in on colleagues, and stayed focused. It was solidarity in action.

As I look back on the Convention, I feel proud—proud of our union, proud of the work we’re doing, and proud to have been part of these important conversations. Every time I attend one of these gatherings, I come home with a renewed sense of purpose and a clearer understanding of the role we all play in shaping the future of our industry and our union.

In Solidarity,
Whit Norris, member of 695 & Delegate of Local 479