The 2026 IATSE District 2 Convention was held in San Diego on June 26 to 28, 2026. The Animation Guild delegation proposed resolutions to be introduced and voted on by the delegates of the IATSE Locals in Arizona, California, Hawai‘i, and Nevada that make up District 2. Below are summaries of the passed resolutions proposed…

It’s been a busy month for TAG’s committees, with plenty of progress to report. From taking to the streets at the West Hollywood Pride Parade to preparing for the bargaining road ahead in 2027, here is the latest on what your committees worked on in June. Artificial Intelligence (AI) Committee In June, the AI Committee sent…

Production Manager Lauren Gauthier discusses getting into animation without drawing skills, heeding the call to be a Nickelodeon Shop Steward, and instilling in her crew members their personal responsibility for keeping the Guild strong. Name: Lauren Gauthier Job Title: Production Manager Studio: Nickelodeon Contact Info: stewards-nickelodeon@tag839.org Tell us a little about yourself and your career.  I’ve been…

As we reach the midpoint of 2026, it’s the perfect time to review your retirement savings and make sure you’re taking full advantage of the benefits available through The Animation Guild (TAG) 401(k) Plan. 2026 IRS Contribution Limits The IRS has increased retirement plan contribution limits for 2026: Standard Contribution Limit: $24,500 Catch-Up Contribution: (Ages…

Background Artist Cathleen McAllister discusses her transition from animation fan to dedicated union representative, using her Negotiations Committee experience as a Flying Bark Shop Steward, and her commitment to helping colleagues navigate Union rights. Name: Cathleen McAllister Job Title: Background Artist Studio/Production: Flying Bark/ Minecraft Animated Series Contact Info: stewards-flyingbark@tag839.org Tell us a little about yourself and your…

For this June’s Lunch & Learn, Help & Resources for Tough Times, three experts from the Entertainment Community Fund, Verdugo Jobs Center, and The Hollywood Commission gave presentations on free services and resources available to help TAG members who are experiencing difficulties. In this summary, you will find information about job training, financial services, assistance…

Lighting and Compositing Department Supervisor David Lee-DuVoisin reflects on his passion for the technical artistry of animation, the unique synergy of working with diverse teams, and his dedication to serving as a reliable resource in his role as a DreamWorks Shop Steward. Name: David Lee DuVoisin Job Title: Lighting and Compositing Department Supervisor Studio: DreamWorks Animation…

TAG committees were busy in May. Read on to get updates and find out what they’ve been up to, as well as upcoming meetings and events they have planned. Artificial Intelligence Committee This month, the AI Committee remained deeply engaged in protecting animators regarding artificial intelligence by representing the field within the Creators Coalition on…

Background Painter Erica Smith reflects on her lifelong passion for volunteering, her multi-pronged engagement with the Guild, and her desire to serve as a resource in her role as Shop Steward.   Name: Erica Smith Job Title: Background Painter Studio: Disney TVA Contact: stewards-disneytva@tag839.org   Tell us a bit about yourself and your career journey. I, like…

Young Workers Committee (LA) Last month, the LA YWC held their first committee meeting of the year at Burbank Town Center mall in the food court. They discussed affordable in-person events they will be looking to host this year. Their first brunch of the year was held on May 2 at Hulett Hall. A newsletter…

As TAG continues to grow, so too do the needs of our members. We’re excited to introduce our newest Field Representative, Megan Esber, who will be joining Field Reps Leslie Simmons and Mairghread Scott to help ensure those needs are met. Read on to learn more about Megan’s extensive experience in labor organizing and what…

This week, California Governor Gavin Newsom announced the second round in the state’s newly expanded Film & Television Tax Credit Program. Among the recipients are three animated feature films: The Simpsons Movie 2 (20th Century Studios); Phineas and Ferb (Disney Entertainment Television), and an untitled project from DreamWorks Animation.   This is the first time that animated…