The American Federation of Musicians has a checkered history of addressing and overcoming divisions based on race and has extended its focus to include gender, sexual orientation, disability, and other aspects of diversity. Obviously, there are challenges in ensuring that diversity and inclusion within its membership is fully represented at all levels of the organization, including structurally. The Diversity Committee of the AFM has been working to create inclusive environments across Locals by developing and strengthening relationships; supporting equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) committees in Locals; and conducting more comprehensive surveys to better understand the demographics and needs of their members.
Since the merger of segregated unions, the AFM has made significant strides in promoting diversity, but there is still work to be done, particularly in addressing the gaps in representation and inclusion within leadership and membership engagement. Examples of ongoing efforts to address the disparity in representation are not limited to, but are supported by, the AFM Diversity Awards, 100% funding of selected MPTF concerts, and protecting the safety of marginalized people working within symphonic orchestras.
Diversity is not just a goal; it is essential for our growth and strength as a union. It brings together a variety of perspectives, experiences, talents, and creativity. By fostering mutual respect, understanding, and inclusion, we empower marginalized voices and build a stronger, more resilient union. Yet, we must ask ourselves: Are we doing enough?
The AFM has a complex history with race, especially regarding the integration of segregated Locals. The merger of these Locals, which started in the 1950s, was a significant milestone in addressing racial division within the organization. The merger of Locals 47 and 767 in Los Angeles in 1953 marked the beginning of a series of similar integrations across the country. This process was often slow and fraught with challenges, as both Black and white Locals had concerns about the impact of these mergers on their financial stability and representation.
Local 427-721 was never segregated – the hyphenated numbers exist from mergers between the Locals of Tampa, St. Petersburg, Clearwater, and Ft. Myers – so the Local does not send a diversity delegate to the AFM convention.
Music Performance Trust Fund
Local 427-721 members are encouraged to apply for grants with the Music Performance Trust Fund to present free concerts at schools, nursing and rehabilitation centers, LGBTQ+ community centers, in public parks, and live streams.
The Music Performance Trust Fund (MPTF) was established in 1948 as a nonprofit independent public service organization whose mission includes contributing to the public knowledge and appreciation of music, as well as making music a part of every child’s life experience. Headquartered in New York City, the tax-exempt MPTF, operating under section 501(c) 3 of the Internal Revenue Code, evolved from a landmark collective bargaining agreement between the American Federation of Musicians and the major recording companies of the day. Today the MPTF is a vital organization that brings music to the public and supplements the income of union musicians, all at no cost to those receiving this precious gift of music.
Funded via a royalty stream from the signatory record labels, led by the three major labels, Sony Music Entertainment, Universal Music Group, and the Warner Music Group, the MPTF today presents thousands of live, admission-free musical programs annually in the United States and Canada. Under the terms of their agreement, the recording companies pay a royalty from the sale of sound recordings to the Fund. These funds are supplemented by co-sponsoring organizations and administered by a Trustee, who is independent of both the recording industry and the AFM.
Music of all styles is brought to a total audience numbering in the millions and covering all age groups and segments of society. Music ranging from pop to classical, jazz to Broadway, is staged at venues including (but not limited to) parks, schools, concert halls, shopping malls, veterans’ hospitals, nursing homes and more. The Fund sponsored or co-sponsored over 2,000 free live events in our 2018-19 fiscal year. MPTF performances are never used to raise money, sell merchandise or promote political or religious events. Working in tandem with union locals in various cities, the MPTF places music in the schools, with priority given to music that enhances education and affords students an opportunity to enjoy live music and interact with professional musicians.
Juneteenth, Black History Month (February), Women’s History Month (March), Jazz Appreciation Month (April), Education (School) performances, Senior Facilities (solo performances), and Live Streams are 100% funded grants serving participating AFM Locals and musicians and provide an opportunity to establish cultural context for the value of music, its history, and the musicians who are essential to performing it.
Diversity Awards
The AFM Diversity Awards, established in 2005, celebrate outstanding examples of diversity within the AFM and are presented during the AFM Convention. The three awards are the Presidents’ Local Award, the Charles Walton Diversity Advocate Award, and the Charles McDaniel Youth Award. Contact the Local 427-721 office to nominate a union musician.
- The Presidents’ Local Award goes to a local that actively promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion through its executive board, articles in its newsletter, a diversity committee, or events highlighting diverse music genres. Locals that have previously won this award are not eligible.
- The Charles Walton Diversity Advocate Award honors a member who has dedicated their life to supporting both union and community issues.
- The Charles McDaniel Youth Award recognizes a young musician, aged 16 to 35, who has made significant strides as an up-and-coming talent within their Local and local community.
Lester Petrillo Memorial Fund for Disabled Musicians
The AFM’s Lester Petrillo Fund was established to assist members-in-good standing who become ill or disabled and cannot accept work. Started in 1951 with a $10,000 personal contribution from then-President James C. Petrillo in memory of his late son, the Lester Petrillo Memorial Fund for Disabled Musicians is a charitable trust fund that provides financial aid to disabled musicians. This fund is not intended to replace health insurance or provide general loans, but does supply modest amounts of assistance to qualified applicants on an emergency basis.
The following COVID-specific circumstances would also qualify for assistance:
- An AFM member is diagnosed with Coronavirus (COVID-19)
- An AFM member tests positive for Coronavirus (COVID-19) and must quarantine
Members and Local officers may download the Lester Petrillo Fund application here. Completed applications, along with supportive medical documentation, should be submitted by members to their local unions, which will then submit them to the Federation.
AFM Diversity Committee
Committee Chair:
Beth Zare of Local 6 (San Francisco, CA)
Members:
Bennie Keys of Local 56 (Grand Rapids, MI)
Rozalind MacPhail of Local 820 (St. John’s, NL)
Tina Morrison of Local 105 (Spokane, WA)
Elliott Ratliff of Local 60-471 (Pittsburgh, PA)
Greg Riley of Local 77 (Philadelphia, PA)
Edmund Velasco of Local 7 (Orange County, CA)
Tihda Vongkoth of Local 427-721 (Tampa Bay, FL)
Stewart Williams of Local 72-147 (Dallas-Ft. Worth, TX)
Resources
September 1, 2024 Diversity Committee Report
A Brief History of the AFM Diversity Committee and Its Achievements
AFM Diversity Committee: 20 Years Strong
MPTF 2023 Annual Report