SAG-AFTRA National President Ken Howard officially opened the union's national convention Thursday, in the most important governance event since the merger of SAG and AFTRA. “What we have created today is an overwhelming and moving tribute to the power of this union to improve the lives of its members all across the country,” he said. “When we work together, we are a powerful voice. When we work together, we are proud and strong. When we work together, we are an unstoppable force that diligently and selflessly works to empower and strengthen the union and our fellow members. We are taking the first, early steps on a remarkable journey. There will only ever be one first SAG-AFTRA convention.”

AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka addressed the delegates:

You see, sisters and brothers, your members create tremendous value. I'm talking about the stars--yes--and everyone else who makes it possible for the stars to shine. We couldn't have the names on the marquee without the artists, the background actors, all the people who absolutely love this business, and whose labor makes possible the joy and wonder I feel, and that all the rest of us in the viewing or listening public feel, when we're transported to another place, or another time, by the magic of the work you do. 

Trumka congratulated the union on its progress since SAG and AFTRA became one on March 30, 2012, saying, “One of the major goals across our labor movement is strengthening the power of unions. And I have no doubt that the merger of SAG and AFTRA has built a much, much stronger union. It's a victory for your combined membership.”

In the afternoon, delegates nominated and elected the union’s eight national vice presidents, including the executive vice president. The elections were a major milestone for the new union, which for the first time has a full team of elected leaders.

Gabrielle Carteris, best known for the television show "90210," was elected as executive vice president.

The following are the results of the election of vice presidents. Candidates who ran unopposed are indicated by an asterisk. Each position is for two years.

Clyde Kusatsu* National Vice President, Los Angeles                     

Mike Hodge  National Vice President, New York                          

Ilyssa Fradin  National Vice President, Mid-Sized Locals            

David Hartley-Margolin  National Vice President, Small Locals                      

Robert Newman  National Vice President, Actors/Performers

Catherine Brown* National Vice President, Broadcasters                   

Dan Navarro*  National Vice President, Recording Artists                           

Today SAG-AFTRA presents an entertainment industry plenary session featuring experts from BuzzFeed, Spotify, ICM, BreakMedia and Somo Mobile Ltd. Other convention business will include a constitutional amendment and resolution session, breakout panels and workshops, and a special presentation on “Sexual Orientation & Gender Identity Diversity in the Industry: The Study.” In the evening, the union will host the Convention Celebration and American Scene Awards.

Visit SAG-AFTRA online at SAGAFTRA.org.