Recording Rap

Latino Recording Musicians-Discrimination?

We have a situation in the Phonograph industry where major labels, all signed to the AFM National Agreement, are operating nonunion subsidiary labels for production and release in the Latino record industry.

This means that while the rest of our musicians are receiving full Phono scales, participation in Special Payments Fund ($18 million last year), and Pension Fund credits, the Latino musician gets a single payment (usually less than scale).

The Federation attempted to pursue this several years ago. During our off-the-record discussions with local recording musicians last year, the question most often asked was, what can we do about the nonunion Latino recording subsidiaries? Even then, questions of discrimination came up. About 30 musicians attended a meeting last month to voice their concerns and discuss solutions. The question of discrimination is now a serious issue.

How do we address the plight of the Latino recording musician? Everyone, including your Local, agreed that although some of our more in-demand members are in a position to make a stand, the rest of our membership needs to be protected. They have all overheard threats of being replaced or of producers going elsewhere. Everyone also agrees that this must be handled through the union.

The issue of discrimination is a very serious point; why has the Latino musician been kept in such a position for so long? Since this is a National agreement, we must first look to the Federation to make this a priority issue. This Local and its members are prepared to take this matter to their state and national officials. We’ve started the movement; call us and give us your input.
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