USA829 Candidate Statement: Eastern Region Member Representative

Dear Union Kin,

I am honored to accept the nomination for Eastern Region Member Representative on our Local Union Executive Board.

As a proud live performance member for over a decade, I have remained deeply committed to serving our union through active participation in multiple committees, union events, and initiatives—including proudly chairing our Local's involvement with Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS.

In my current role as Secretary of the Lighting Category Committee, I've worked collaboratively to advance key resolutions focused on pay equity, pay parity, transparent contract implementation, and effective conflict resolution. I've consistently advocated for stronger member support, clearer communication, and greater visibility for our BIPOC members and pre-members. I believe in accessible, free union-sponsored education and a living wage for all, under all circumstances.

Our union's strength lies in our solidarity. We must continue to push for equitable working conditions across all sectors of our industry.

Over the years, I've had the privilege of listening to and learning from many of you. Those conversations have shaped my vision for a more equitable, inclusive, and responsive union—one that actively supports both our members and our pre-members through fair processes and better access to opportunities.

I recognize the complexities within our contracts, the gaps in benefit implementation, and the disparities in our entrance exams. As your elected representative, I will work to enhance, clarify, and improve these systems to ensure they serve all of our members equitably.

I am a firm believer that our strength grows with our numbers. There is untapped potential in expanding our membership and engaging new voices to move us forward. For years, I've advocated for greater transparency and accountability in the management of the IATSE National Benefit Fund, particularly regarding healthcare access and pension oversight. If elected, I will continue to push for a smoother transition process, reduced administrative errors, and stronger communication and support structures for our membership.

I bring a diverse professional background that spans Broadway, Off-Broadway, commercial and nonprofit theater, museums, fashion, awards shows, television, and motion pictures. This cross-sector experience has provided me with a well-rounded, comprehensive understanding of our union's broad membership and the unique challenges faced across disciplines. I'm eager to bring this perspective to the Executive Board in service of all our members.

Above all, I am committed to ensuring that every voice is heard, every concern addressed, and every opportunity seized to move our union toward a stronger, more united future.

Thank you for considering me to serve in this greater capacity. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity.

In Solidarity,

Coby Chasman-Beck

Endorsed by: Aja Jackson, Alan Edwards, Barry Steele, Brandon Stirling Baker, Caite Hevner, Cody Spencer, Cory Pattak, Daisy Long, Dalton Hamilton, Dana Kenn, Donyale Werle, Doug Cox, Ed McCarthy, Ethan Steimel, Hana Kim, Jeff Croiter, Jimmy Lawler, Joe Naftal, John Demous, John Narun, Ken Posner, Ken Willis, Kirk Bookman, Lauryn Pepe, Marcella Barbeau, Matt Guminski, Mike Wood, Paige Seiber, Rob Denton, Ron Vodicka, Sam Gordon, Shawn Kaufman, Stacy Boggs, Sun Hee Kil, Tracy Christensen, Travis McHale, Will Elphingstone, Yael Lubetzky.