Timothy Snyder, author of “On Tyranny, Twenty Lessons From the Twentieth Century” wrote about defending our political order from the threats of authoritarianism, which is on the rise not only in the United States but across the globe. 

Protecting our democratic freedoms and institutions requires active participation. We cannot rely on others to vote and engage with the issues that challenge our future. Here in Los Angeles we saw firsthand how our elected officials, union members and social justice organizations stood up in the face of ICE raids which have been a part of our lives for a year this month. We’re all suffering from fatigue from the daily news cycle and overnight rants from the White House but please don’t let complacency rule. 

Congratulations to those Local 47 members who have marched in the streets and volunteered their time to support organized labor’s response to the attack on immigrants and working people. Our collective power is greater when you engage.

For those who have yet to participate in a General Membership Meeting, now’s the time! Your participation is vital to the well being and growth of our union. I look forward to seeing you on Monday, July 27th, at 7:30 p.m. at the Local. While it will be a hybrid format, the power of our collective voice –  like our music—is better in person! Look for more information on the agenda as the date gets closer.

Happy Pride! Did you know that the  LA Pride Parade was the first officially permitted LGBTQ+ parade in the world? The first parade took place on June 28, 1970, on Hollywood Boulevard, to commemorate the first anniversary of the Stonewall Riots. The 2026 LA Pride Parade is scheduled for Sunday, June 14th, along Hollywood Boulevard. This celebration of identity offers an opportunity to demonstrate your solidarity and active support for our LGBTQ+ community. Stay tuned for more information about how you can participate .

The 103rd AFM Convention is fast approaching, scheduled for June 19th through the 23rd. This historic gathering represents the first time the Federation has convened in Canada since 1973. Within the May issue of the “International Musician,” you can review the various Resolutions and Recommendations that our Delegates will debate and decide upon. While our elected Local 47 representatives will be on the floor advocating for your interests, every AFM member may attend as an observer. If you wish to join us as a guest, please complete the registration form available here.  https://www.afm.org/103rd-afm-convention/

“When working people come together, they make things better for everyone. …..by speaking up together, you can accomplish more than you could on your own.” https://aflcio.org/what-unions-do