Weekly Fireside Chat with Foundation President Courtney B. Vance 6/8/20

Please watch the eleventh weekly Fireside Chat from our President Courtney B. Vance who gives an update on our COVID-19 Relief Fund (https://www.sagaftra.foundation/covid19relief) and speaks to the topic of financial fluency during this critical time.

In the last 12 weeks since the pandemic began, we’ve distributed $4.9 million in emergency aid with a few hundred applications in review. Applications are currently taking approximately one week to process.

During the time of COVID-19, finances can be both of paramount priority and concern. Last week, Courtney was asked to participate on a panel (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HtRD435zyyo) hosted by the African American Film Critics Association and SAGIndie on “Financial Fluency for Entertainment Professionals.” On this panel, industry leaders and financial titans spoke about the financial challenges artists – especially those of color – are facing right now, and discussed some of the options that were available so that artists can maintain stability and position themselves for success.

Finally, Courtney gives his thoughts on weathering the storm, and offering hope and historical context regarding our ability to unite.