HOLLYWOOD, Calif.—The two main unions representing “below the line” film crew and support workers have both
denounced sexual harassment in the aftermath of the sexual-assault allegations against director Harvey Weinstein. “In light of the recent reports regarding the alleged harassment of many A-list actresses by Harvey Weinstein, we must not forget that sexual harassment will not be tolerated towards ANY hardworking women or men on set,” Teamsters Local 399 secretary-treasurer Steve Dayan wrote in a statement posted on the union’s Web site. “Sadly, many below-the-line workers experience the same sort of treatment and harassment.” “We recognize that sexual harassment in the entertainment industry is not a one-time issue to confront,” said the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees, encouraging members to contact the union’s safety hotline “if they are in a situation that feels wrong or unsafe.” Meanwhile, the Directors Guild of America announced that it has launched disciplinary proceedings against Weinstein, and the Producers Guild of America began the process of expelling him. SAG-AFTRA, the Writers Guild of America West, and the Writers Guild of America East had previously issued statements denouncing sexual harassment in the industry.
