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Guild of Italian American Actors (GIAA)

2 minute read | Last updated: 4 months ago

What does Guild of Italian American Actors (GIAA) mean?

Guild of Italian American Actors (GIAA) represents Italian-American performers working in film, theater, and television. Founded in 1937, GIAA is dedicated to promoting the cultural heritage of Italian-Americans in the entertainment industry while ensuring that its members receive fair pay, health benefits, and pension contributions. GIAA represents its members in both English and Italian-language productions, offering a platform for actors of Italian descent to support one another and advance their careers. The union provides protections for its members in terms of contract negotiation, residual payments, and workplace safety.

GIAA plays a vital role in advocating for the rights of Italian-American performers, ensuring they have access to fair wages, residuals, and health benefits. The union is also instrumental in helping members network within the industry while preserving Italian-American cultural identity in entertainment.

Example:An actor in an Italian-language film produced in the U.S. receives fair compensation and residuals thanks to GIAA’s negotiated agreements.
Example: A theater actor of Italian descent is able to secure health benefits and pension contributions while performing in New York thanks to GIAA’s protections.

Did You Know?
GIAA was one of the earliest unions to protect ethnic actors in the U.S., advocating for Italian-American performers since 1937!

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