2025 IA District 7 and Quadrennial
Hi, I'm Amanda.
For those of you that don't know me, I have been a Costume Tailor in IATSE Local 479 since 2019, and a film worker since 2011. My career originally began in Theatre in 2004, where I worked as a Costume Designer, Technician, and Shop Manager. I am originally from Allentown, Pennsylvania, and have lived in Georgia since 2015. Some of you may know me from shows we have worked on together; others from various 479 Committees, Volunteer opportunities, GMM's, and the 2024 District 7 Convention. Or, you may just recognize me by my green glasses.
Being able to serve my fellow union kin on the Scholarship, Pride, and Constitution Committees, as well as volunteering for "Safety for Sarah" and "Women at Work," has shown me that 479 members are craving an outlet for connection, comradery, and fellowship. I would like to help members stay connected to information and resources that are available to them through our local. My family has a long history of Trade Unionism and solidarity is in my blood. I know that to make real change happen, it takes the unity of our members. As an active local member, and follower of the Crew Caucus, I believe that Common Sense Change and Reform starts at the International Level. It is my hope that attending the 2025 District 7 and Quadrennial Convention will provide me the opportunity to use my vote to do that.
Why I'd Like to Be a Delegate to the 2025 District 7 and Quadrennial Convention.
In August 2024, I was fortunate to attend the IATSE District 7 Convention in Memphis, TN, and learned a lot about the IA and how it runs. From morning work sessions to Committee events, we were busy for hours talking, debating, voting, and listening to professionals speak of labor relations. I would be grateful to attend the District 7 and Quadrennial Convention this year to be able to learn even more and also to be able to cast a ballot on the International level. I feel each craft in the IA should be represented fairly and will take into consideration what my fellow members have discussed with me regarding their feelings on various subjects. As of now, if I am elected as a delegate, I am planning to attend the Wardrobe and Film and Television Caucus Meetups, as well as the Pride, DEI, and Women's Committee Events. This is in addition to all working and educational sessions. Please allow me to be a voice for our 479 members and best represent our collective interests.
My Background
I was born in Allentown, Pennsylvania, and my parents moved us to Birmingham, Alabama when I was starting elementary school. I grew up being involved with sports and art, and in high school joined the Theatre program. I went to UAB where I received a BA in Theatrical Design and Studio Art. I worked at various theatres for several years before pursuing my MFA in Costume Design at the University of Edinburgh in Scotland. It was in the UK that I first worked in film, and learned what it was like to work without the protection of a union. Once my MFA was completed, I moved back to the states and worked in Theatre and Opera for a few years before transitioning fully into Film and TV.
I hold my union card close to my heart as it represents generations of my family working for the collective good for many. My Great-Grandfather, Grandfather, and Great Uncles all worked for Bethlehem Steel and were members of the USW. My Grandfather later became a Teacher and joined the AFT. My Paternal Grandmother became a member of the Teamsters in the 1970s, and my Aunt Tori was a member of the UAW through Mack Trucks. I grew up hearing stories of strikes, going to union family days and meetups, and marching for Labor Rights. I never felt closer to many members of my family than when I joined the IA.
