About the AFTRA New Orleans Local

History of the AFTRA New Orleans Local

The AFTRA New Orleans Local was formed over fifty years ago by broadcasters working at what was then largely family-owned radio and television stations. These men were not only Talent, they were also the visible face of broadcasting in New Orleans and respected members of the community. As such, they gave an imprimatur to the Local that provided it an instant respectability and acceptance.

With the advent of Right-To-Work legislation in the 1970s, the disappearance of the family-owned station’s environment and the growing corporate nature of the media industry a less friendly environment towards unions developed.

The shrinking of the local economy as the oil industry increasingly went overseas made advertising dollars more difficult to come by with consequent shrinking of the market. The recent devastating effects of Hurricane Katrina aggravated the situation for our Local economy. 

On the positive side, the influx of production projects to New Orleans is booming because of state legislation with production incentives and the music industry by nature is coming back.

The prospects for growth and the likelihood of more production are here together with AFTRA jobs where performers can enjoy union protections and benefits to serve as encouragement to non-union talent to come aboard.
 
The New Orleans Local of AFTRA is proud of its past and committed to the future.

AFTRA Partners & Events

AFTRA FOUNDATION

Learn how the AFTRA Foundation helps AFTRA Members and the arts.

Music Video Organizing

Learn more about the efforts to organize music videos.

INDUSTRY DISCOUNTS

AFTRA members get discounts on industry events and conferences.

AFTRA H&R

Providing health and retirement benefits for AFTRA members.