“The City of Chicago is an excellent representation of the many areas in which DGA members work – a storied history as well as a bright future,” said DGA Associate National Executive Director/Eastern Executive Director Neil Dudich to the Guild’s members attending the 2025 general membership meeting in Chicago. “A robust and sustaining community of film, television and commercial production that was built by union workers, it reminds us of what we fight for at the negotiating table and beyond.”
Hosted by the Chicago Coordinating Committee (CCC) on November 20, the evening provided an opportunity for DGA members living and working in the Midwest to hear updates about their Guild and meet Dudich, National Executive Director Russell Hollander and Field Representative Brett Wise, who serves as the liaison for the region.
Following a cocktail reception and welcomes by CCC Co-Chairs UPM Richard S. Lederer and Director Thomas Wekony, Jr., Dudich began by expressing his deep appreciation Committee for their efforts on behalf of their fellow members and acknowledged the work of Hollander and the rest of the DGA staff in supporting DGA members both there in Chicago and around the globe. Bringing the attendees up to speed on what’s happening at the DGA, what we’re seeing in the industry, and how we’re approaching this challenging moment, Dudich spoke about the unprecedented industry contraction in film production as well as the turbulent administration in Washington challenging free speech norms.
“Nobody can say with certainty when we will reach a new equilibrium, but you should know that the DGA is not waiting for the dust to settle,” said Dudich. “We understand how difficult this moment is for many of our members, and your elected leaders are doing everything in their power to protect your jobs, your earnings, and your ability to build a lasting and meaningful career. Our Guild has weathered profound industry transitions before and through every evolution, the DGA has remained, and has ensured that our members not only survive but share in the success created by new technologies. Today’s challenges may look different, but our mission remains the same.”
Despite the challenges, Dudich noted the reasons for optimism in Illinois, saying, “As many of you know, the legislature recently passed enhancements to the State’s production incentive … improvements we believe will attract new projects and solidify the already strong production presence in Chicago and throughout the State. And through our participation in the Illinois Production Alliance, the DGA advocated strongly for enhancements that would generate meaningful new work now while maintaining the guardrails that protect the long-term stability of the program. A sustainable incentive means a sustainable film community.”
He went to extend special recognition to UPM James McAllister, the DGA representative on the Production Alliance Board and 2nd AD Natasha Parker Olguin, who has been named the new Deputy Commissioner of the Chicago Film Office. “The strong involvement of Chicago members shows why this production community continues to thrive. The labor community here is tight-knit, experienced, and unified.”
Sharing details on how the Guild is preparing for the next round of contract negotiations, Dudich assured the members that their Guild will be ready to take up the fight to continue protecting their economic and creative rights.
Ending on a note of optimism, Dudich reiterated how Chicago occupies a special place within the DGA and the industry. “As I noted earlier, the city reflects every aspect of the business. When production elsewhere has surged or slowed, Chicago’s growth has been steady and resilient, not unlike the city itself. Your community here is active, engaged, and inspiring. The Chicago Coordinating Committee leads with clarity and purpose, our partnerships with other unions in the state remain strong, and your ongoing participation shows just how deeply rooted this Guild is in Chicago. I want to close by inviting each of you to play an active role in shaping the future of this Guild and this industry. Your feedback, your ideas, and your advocacy matter. We welcome your counsel as we move forward into a complex but promising future.”
Following Dudich’s address, the meeting attendees were then able to ask questions of him, National Executive Director Hollander and Field Rep Wise.
About the Committee:
The Chicago Coordinating Committee was formed in the mid-1960s to coordinate Guild activities in the Chicago Area, including acting as liaison between members and the Guild, disseminating information, and promoting public awareness of the Guild. The Committee is Co-Chaired by Director Thomas Wekony, Jr. and UPM Richard S. Lederer.
