Vice President from Canada

En francais: Nouveau régime de soins de santé pour les musiciens canadiens

For the last two months, we have all been caught up in the emotions of the highly charged political world we live in. Canadians are insulted by the economic warfare being waged on our identity and our resources. The solidarity of all international unions is being challenged by the ridiculous behaviour of the US president. Almost everyone I know is angered, embarrassed, and voicing opinions daily on this political mess.

Social media, which began life not too long ago as just that—a social interaction between friends—has turned into a constant feed of media propaganda from whatever algorithm source has infiltrated each of our devices. I miss the old days of seeing what people ate for dinner or who was playing a gig where.

So, how are you doing? Are you taking care of your health? As musicians, staying healthy is critical to our wellbeing. It affects the ability to focus and be physically as well as mentally free of impediments to do our jobs. As a Federation, we have worked hard to care of one another, including workplace health and safety as well as diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Statements that are embedded in our mission and values have supported these virtues. You can read about an important step the AFM has taken with the launch of the NotMe app.

It’s timely to celebrate what we have in Canada. I am happy to announce a new benefit for AFM members in Canada. The Arts and Entertainment Plan, which provides affordable health care, is now available to you and your family. This means freelance musicians in Canada and immediate family have access to health and dental coverage. The affordable premiums may even be tax deductible.

The plan has two levels, standard and comprehensive, and includes 70% coverage of prescription drugs, dental coverage (both regular prevention and accidental), as well as coverage for other important health-related costs like hearing aids, ambulance, vision care, and a myriad of other options. There is guaranteed acceptance (with no pre-existing conditions) and no waiting period. The plan is available to anyone under 71 years old. Details will be available through all Canadian locals. Please contact your local for further information or see your local newsletter.

While our mental health may be challenged by the economic threats coming from the current US President, his attack on DEI, and the firing of thousands of public service employees, all of which are insulting and shameful, let’s celebrate the fact that, as Canadians, we will always be proud of what we have available in our country.

The Arts and Entertainment Plan is available only in Canada, our home and native land, the true north, strong and free.

Nouveau régime de soins de santé pour les musiciens canadiens

par Allistair Elliott, vice-président de l’AFM pour le Canada

Depuis les deux derniers mois, nous sommes tous bouleversés par le monde politique chargé dans lequel nous vivons. Les Canadiens sont insultés par la guerre économique lancée contre notre identité et nos ressources; la solidarité de tous les syndicats internationaux est mise à l’épreuve par le comportement ridicule du président des É.-U; et presque tout le monde que je connais est fâché, embarrassé, et discute quotidiennement de ce gâchis politique.

Les médias sociaux, une création assez récente qui portait bien son nom à l’origine – un lieu d’interactions sociales entre amis – sont devenus une source constante de propagande venant de quelque algorithme ayant infiltré nos appareils. Je m’ennuie du bon vieux temps où je voyais ce que les gens mangeaient pour le souper, ou qui avait un engagement et où.

Alors, comment allez-vous? Est-ce que vous vous occupez de votre santé?

Comme musiciens, rester en santé est essentiel pour notre mieux-être. Notre capacité à nous concentrer et à rester libre de tout ce qui pourrait nuire à notre travail en dépend, tant physiquement que mentalement. À titre de fédération, nous avons travaillé très fort pour prendre soin les uns des autres, y compris en matière de sécurité et santé au travail, de diversité, d’équité et d’inclusion (DEI). Ces vertus sont appuyées par des déclarations qui sont gravées dans notre mission et nos valeurs. Par ailleurs, nous pourrons lire plus loin dans cette édition de l’International Musician que l’AFM a pris une mesure importante en lançant l’application NotMe.

Il est donc opportun de célébrer ce que nous avons au Canada, et je suis heureux d’annoncer un nouveau bénéfice pour nos membres. Le Régime des arts et du divertissement (Arts and Entertainment Plan), qui offre des soins de santé abordables, est maintenant accessible à vous et à votre famille. Ainsi, les musiciens pigistes au Canada et leurs familles proches auront un accès abordable à des soins de santé et dentaires. Les primes seront peut-être même déductibles de l’impôt.

Le régime comporte deux niveaux de protection, standard et totale, et couvre 70 pour cent des frais de médicaments d’ordonnance et de soins dentaires (de prévention régulière et accidentels); il couvre également d’autres importantes dépenses tels que les appareils auditifs, les services ambulanciers, les soins de la vue et une myriade d’autres options. L’approbation est garantie (sans troubles de santé préexistants), et il n’y a pas de période d’attente. Le régime est offert à toute personne âgée de moins de 71 ans. Pour plus de détails, veuillez contacter votre section locale canadienne ou consulter son infolettre.

Tandis que notre santé mentale est mise à l’épreuve par les menaces économiques du président des États-Unis, ses attaques sur la DEI et le congédiement de milliers de fonctionnaires, tous des comportements insultants et honteux, célébrons le fait que, comme Canadiens, nous serons toujours fiers de ce que nous avons dans notre pays.

Le Régime d’assurance des arts et du divertissement n’est offert qu’au Canada, notre foyer et pays natal, le vrai Nord, fort et libre.

Never have I ever read so many political commentaries, opinions, and predictions than in the last month. The chaos created by the smoke show in Washington, DC, has stirred even the most apolitical segment of the population to raise eyebrows and engage with opinions. Some people have become addicted to watching the next headline news story and debate the strategy and counter strategy of politicians and governments. For others, the chaos has caused so much stress and anxiety that they avoid watching the news or reading social media.

When there is a bully in the schoolyard, the way to defeat them is to stand together. The bully will try to turn friends against each other. Their tactics usually open the small differences we have in our lives because we feel the need to react. Our passion, patriotism, and intrinsic sense of “we must do something” causes us to feel compelled to scratch that itch. To outsmart the bully, they must be called out from a united voice that complements our friends and speaks in favor of them.

Last week, I was invited to spend a day in Washington, DC, as part of a Canadian Labour Congress (CLC) delegation. Several unions were represented, and we discussed the impact and implications of potential tariffs. Later in the day, we were invited to meet with Canadian Premiers at AFL-CIO headquarters, right across the street from the White House.

We heard Premier David Eby (BC) and Premier Wab Kinew (MB) articulate a strong argument as to why tariffs between the US and Canada make no sense. It was clear from what they shared that there is just as much confusion in the US as there is in Canada. Any tariffs will cost jobs on both sides of the border. The knee jerk reaction we must guard against, which this very chaos creates, is for us to look for our own “tariffs” that we should impose on ourselves. In other words, this chaos agenda can cause us to negotiate among ourselves.

This conversation needs to be about people and jobs, not tariffs. The conversation with unions, the AFL-CIO, and CLC focused on the labour movement sending a clear and consistent message. We must not let this chaos create division and disharmony in our union, and not let the schoolyard bully dismantle our international solidarity. We must remain focused on our motto: unity, harmony, and artistry.

We must be prepared. Avoid the distraction, find distraction, and create distrACTION. Remember, in Canada, we are on the verge of a very important Federal election likely coming in the spring. We must make sure to get involved and vote. Let’s not let only a third of eligible voters decide who our next leader will be. Build traction and take action.

Susciter l’union et l’action malgré la distraction

par Allistair Elliott, vice-président de l’AFM pour le Canada

Je n’ai jamais lu autant de commentaires politiques, d’opinions et de prédictions qu’au cours du dernier mois. Le chaos créé par le « show de boucane » à Washington D.C. fait sourciller et réagir même la partie la plus apolitique de la population. Certains sont devenus accros aux manchettes et débattent sans arrêt des stratégies et contre-stratégies des politiciens et des gouvernements, d’autres ressentent tant de stress et d’anxiété qu’ils évitent de regarder les informations ou de suivre les réseaux sociaux.

Lorsqu’il y a un tyran dans la cour d’école, la meilleure solution consiste à rester unis. Il cherchera à diviser pour régner. Les tactiques de ce genre de personnage exploitent habituellement les petits différends dans nos vies, parce que cela nous fait facilement bondir. Notre passion, notre patriotisme et notre sentiment de « devoir y faire quelque chose » nous poussent à gratter la plaie, en quelque sorte. Pour déjouer le tyran, il faut le dénoncer d’une seule voix, soutenir nos amis et parler en leur faveur.

La semaine dernière, j’ai été invité à passer une journée à Washington D.C. comme membre d’une délégation du Congrès du travail du Canada (CTC). Plusieurs syndicats étaient représentés, et nous avons discuté de l’impact et des conséquences d’éventuels tarifs. Plus tard dans la journée, nous avons été invités de l’autre côté de la rue au siège social de l’AFL-CIO, en face de la Maison-Blanche, à rencontrer les premiers ministres canadiens.

Nous avons entendu les premiers ministres David Eby (C.-B.) et Wab Kinew (Man.) faire valoir des arguments solides contre les tarifs entre les États-Unis et le Canada. Il était clair, selon ce qu’ils nous ont dit, qu’il y avait autant de confusion aux États-Unis qu’au Canada à cet égard. Tout tarif, quel qu’il soit, entraînera des pertes d’emplois des deux côtés de la frontière. La réaction instinctive à laquelle nous devons résister, et que provoque le chaos ambiant, serait de nous imposer nous-mêmes des tarifs. En d’autres termes, le chaos pourrait nous pousser à négocier entre nous.

Cette conversation doit être axée sur les personnes et les emplois, pas sur les tarifs. Les échanges avec les syndicats, l’AFL-CIO et le CTC, ont porté sur l’importance pour le mouvement ouvrier de transmettre un message clair et toujours identique. Nous ne devons pas permettre à ce chaos de créer la division et la mésentente au sein de notre syndicat, au tyran dans la cour d’école de démanteler notre solidarité internationale. Nous devons rester concentrés sur notre devise : unité, harmonie et talent.

Nous devons nous préparer. Éviter la distraction, chercher l’union et créer la distrACTION. N’oubliez pas que, au Canada, nous approchons d’une élection fédérale très importante qui aura probablement lieu au printemps. Nous devons à tout prix participer et voter. Ne laissons pas seulement un tiers des électeurs admissibles décider qui sera notre prochain dirigeant. Suscitez l’union et l’action.

The trade relationship between the US and Canada is the largest in the world. According to statistics on Wikipedia, the goods and services traded between our two countries totalled $923 billion in 2023. US exports were $441 billion, while imports were $482 billion, for a US $41 billion trade deficit with Canada.

Canada historically held a trade deficit with the US every year since 1985 in net trade of goods, excluding services. The trade across the Ambassador Bridge, between Windsor, Ontario, and Detroit, Michigan, alone is equal to all trade between the US and Japan.

Energy trade is the largest component of this cross-border commerce. Canada has the third largest oil reserves (after Saudi Arabia and Venezuela). The US has historically been Canada’s only foreign market for natural gas, oil, and hydro. Agriculture (specifically dairy products) has been a source of tension in recent years, as is the importation of less costly prescription drugs from Canada to the US. Due to the Canadian government’s price controls, the cost of prescription drugs can be a fraction of the price paid by consumers in the US, where the market is unregulated. Over the years, other commodities, such as lumber, have been the subject of trade disputes in this chess game.

What does this have to do with our industry? Well, buried way down in the list of trade issues are media and culture. While generally low on both governments’ priority lists, these are of high interest to our industry.

For Canadian musicians, travel to the US for work requires a visa for all types of musical engagements. Expanding their careers into this larger market is a goal for many Canadian musicians. They currently face many challenges even after taking all the right steps to obtain a visa.

Since June 2024, the process to apply requires more and more lead time due to longer processing times and administrative changes at US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The delays seem to occur randomly in about 50% of the applications with no way to predict which ones will be delayed.

The cost also continues to increase because growing backlogs and delays require the Premium Processing fee to be paid more frequently. AFM lobby efforts, both solo and with a committee of other US industry representatives and immigration attorneys, worked hard to prevent costs from increasing astronomically. (From $460-$510 for a P-2 visa, versus USCIS proposed $1,615, when new fee rules were implemented in April 2024.) Although costs are burdensome for all our members working in the US, this is a huge issue among independent, touring freelance musicians in Canada. And when they do not receive their visas in a timely manner, they can see entire tours crumble.

With the new administration in power in Washington, DC, and the threat of higher tariffs looming, governments on both sides of the border are posturing, puffing out their chests with statements that threaten this, that, and the other.

We are two countries, but we are one union. AFM staff continues to work together on both sides of the border to represent all members. Our P-2 visa staff work tirelessly to process visa applications, while pivoting to face processing hurdles USCIS throws in the way. We understand that this is a stressful time for members awaiting information on their visa status. Rest assured that our staff continue to work in a timely and efficient manner on their behalf.

AFM Director of Government Affairs Ben Kessler and Executive Director AFM Canadian Office Liana White are the key point persons for the P-2 visa process, in respect to both lobbying and administrative work.

At the AFM, we are collectively holding our breath on how trade will be affected between the US and Canada as the plans of the new US administration unfold. We will continue to work together as the American Federation of Musicians of the United States and Canada to facilitate our Canadian musicians traveling to the US to work.

Throughout history, as governments change and politics interfere with this critical piece of our world, we adjust, pivot, and endeavor to work together to do our best to make the lives of professional musicians better.

An entry from the diary of Anne Halkett on January 2, 1671, a writer and member of the Scottish gentry, entitled “Resolutions,” referenced this pledge: “I will not offend anymore.” This would indicate that the practice of making New Year’s resolutions dates back at least a few hundred years.

We have all experienced beginning a new year with the greatest intentions, and then by the middle of January, we have reverted to old habits. Rather than taking on personal resolutions, I suggest we look at our habits as AFM members and locals so that, as we enter another year, we are setting ourselves up for success.

The history of the AFM was built by those who put the we before the me. Our AFM mission and values speak to the principles of working together so that we can live and work in dignity, be compensated fairly, have a meaningful voice in decisions that affect us, have opportunity to develop our talents and skills, use our collective voice and power in a democratic and progressive union, and oppose the forces of exploitation through our union solidarity (Article 2, Section 1, AFM Bylaws).

Democratic participation in our union would suggest showing up and getting involved so that each voice can be heard and valued and we can create movement and change. So, my call to action at the start of a new year is for you to get more involved at your local.

Membership orientation meetings are scheduled so new members can learn how their lives as professional musicians will improve. Membership has many benefits, and joining is just the first step. Through new member orientations and general meetings, you gain knowledge. They are vehicles for learning more about union benefits and how, as well as why, members should file contracts on every job to be protected and vested in our pension plans, both in the US and Canada.

At general meetings, you can learn about extended discount programs, grant programs, local municipal lobbying efforts, and what the Federation is doing on a national scale. These meetings are an entry point to further involvement. Many years ago, as a new member, a general meeting served as my connection point to network with established members. There, I began to learn more about our history, how locals relate to the Federation, and how the American Federation of Musicians of the United States and Canada operates.

For local officers, general meetings are a vehicle to communicate with members and for all to engage with one another and build solidarity. Finances, officer elections, and the general business of the local are reported to members through general meetings.

As a member, make your New Year’s resolution to become more involved in your local. It’s how we grow together, help one another, learn from one another, and support one another. Becoming involved in your local, beyond paying dues and reading a newsletter, is how you educate yourself to both the why and the how of membership.

Taking care of your paperwork the right way will improve your life as a professional musician. Filling out the right contract on a recording (even the one you do as a demo) can act as an insurance policy on potential future income. That’s just one of the reasons for becoming more connected with your local. By becoming more involved, you will learn the true value of membership. You can add to that value by asking questions, participating in advocacy efforts, and working together to make our lives as musicians better.

So, as you begin this new year and pay your membership dues, commit to attending your local’s general meetings. Your input is valued and your participation is welcomed. Learn something new, meet like-minded musicians, and help others feel valued.

If you are a local officer, connect with your AFM international representative and discover new resources at https://members.afm.org/member/library/. Make 2025 the year we all take better care of the business part of being a musician.

As we come to the end of another calendar year, I look back on the whirlwind of the last seven months since I took office. Negotiations continue on several fronts, both in New York City with Live TV negotiations, and in Toronto with the Canadian Media Producers Association (CMPA), TV Ontario (TVO) (now complete), and the General Production Agreement (CBC), which is just beginning as I write this article. Plus, National Film Board (NFB), Canadian Country Music Association (CCMA), Association of Canadian Advertisers/Institute of Canadian Agencies (ACA/ICA) (jingles), East Coast Music Association (ECMA), and Canadian Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences (CARAS) negotiations are on the horizon in 2025.

These negotiations wouldn’t happen without a caucus of experienced officers and staff who put in endless hours to help strategize the best possible outcome for members working under these agreements. As we bargain to improve working conditions and compensation for these musicians, I want to recognize and thank all who have taken the time to assist in negotiations this year.

Doug Kuss, although retired from Local 547 (Calgary, AB), has been an asset as he has continued at the bargaining table throughout several years of CMPA negotiations. Thanks also to Local 149 (Toronto, ON) Executive Director Dusty Kelly and CFM Office Executive Director Liana White for their participation at both CMPA and TVO negotiations. The trio of Kuss, Kelly, and White are also at the table with me for CBC negotiations, where we are joined by Local 180 (Ottawa, ON) Secretary-Treasurer Robin Moir; Local 406 (Montréal, PQ) Director General Guy Bernard; AFM Electronic Media Services Division Director John Painting; CFM Director of Administration Susan Whitfield; as well as representatives from Locals 145 (Vancouver, BC), 571 (Halifax, NS), and 149. Rest assured, together we will work to get the best possible agreement to improve the terms for all musicians.

Unfortunately, the P-2 visa process and administration nightmare from processing offices at US Citizenship and Immigration Services has been a huge challenge for Canadian musicians travelling to the US for work. Rightly so, Canadian members have expressed frustration, anger, and every emotion in between for several months. Everyone should know that the Federation, on both sides of the border, has been involved in lobbying efforts and numerous meetings on the border crossing issues.

AFM Director of Government Affairs Ben Kessler and Liana White (who has many years of experience with the P-2 visa process) have been in communication to prepare next steps when the new US government takes office in January. This situation will continue to be of the highest priority until resolved. These issues, while they seem simple on the surface, are always part of a larger picture and can be extremely delicate to navigate. We will share all pertinent information as it becomes available. 

Last month, I had the opportunity to attend the International Federation of Musicians (FIM) International Orchestra Conference in Malmö, Sweden. Listening to experiences from union representatives of FIM member countries provided both insight and understanding of what the challenges are for orchestras around the world.

Finally, I want to acknowledge our staff at the CFM office in Toronto. They are the humans who keep the wheels turning and are the unsung heroes. Liana White and Susan Whitfield have been the foundational support of the CFM office for many years, and their dedication to their work and our members is exemplary. Recording and Licensing Manager Carl Schilde and Electronic Media Assistant Kirk Chau keep our Electronic Media department running. Membership Services Manager Cathy Lee celebrated 10 years this year. She facilitates all things member services. Artist Immigration Administrators Ari Vangeest and Sean Henderson process all the P-2 visa paperwork and Corine Auguste provides fluent bilingual administrative support. Last, but not least, our field staff of International Representative for Canada Bernard Leblanc and Symphonic Services Negotiator Richard Sandals provide support to our 24 locals across Canada.

I would like to wish all our members, officers, and staff a happy, healthy, and safe holiday season and much success for 2025.

Résumé d’une année intense de négociations

par Allistair Elliott, vice-président de l’AFM pour le Canada

Tandis qu’ une autre année civile tire à sa fin, je revois le tourbillon des sept derniers mois depuis mon arrivée en poste. Les négociations continuent sur plusieurs fronts, à la fois dans la ville de New York avec Live TV, et à Toronto avec l’Association canadienne de production de films et de télévision (ACPFT) et TV Ontario (TVO) (maintenant terminées); celles de l’Entente de production générale (SRC) commencent tout juste au moment d’écrire ces lignes. De plus, sont prévues en 2025 celles pour l’Office national du film, l’Association canadienne de la musique country, l’Association canadienne des annonceurs/l’Institut des agences canadiennes (jingles), l’Association de la musique de la Côte est et l’Académie canadienne des arts et des sciences de l’enregistrement.

Ces négociations ne pourraient avoir lieu sans une équipe d’administrateurs et de personnel chevronnés. Ils ont investi un nombre incalculable d’heures en vue d’obtenir les meilleurs résultats possibles pour les membres qui travaillent aux termes de ces ententes. Alors que nous négocions pour améliorer les conditions de travail et la rémunération de ces musiciens, j’aimerais remercier tous ceux qui ont pris le temps d’apporter leur concours à nos efforts cette année.

Doug Kuss a été un atout; en effet, bien qu’il a pris sa retraite de la section locale 547 (Calgary, Alb.), il est resté à la table de négociation de l’ ACPFT pendant plusieurs années. Merci aussi au directeur général de la section 149 (Toronto, Ont.), Dusty Kelly, et à la directrice générale du bureau de la FCM, Liana White, pour leur participation aux négociations à la fois de l’ ACPFT et de TVO. Le trio Kuss, Kelly et White est également à la table avec moi pour les négociations de la SRC, où nous ont rejoint le secrétaire trésorier de la section 180 (Ottawa, Ont.), Robin Moir; le directeur général de la section 406 (Montréal, Que.), Guy Bernard; le directeur de la Division du service des médias électroniques de l’AFM, John Painting; la directrice de l’administration de la FCM, Susan Whitfield, de même que les représentants des sections 145 (Vancouver,C.-B.), 571 (Halifax, N.-É.) et 149. Soyez assurés qu’ensemble, nous travaillons pour obtenir la meilleure entente qui soit en vue d’améliorer les conditions pour tous les musiciens.

Malheureusement, le cauchemar de l’administration et du traitement des permis P-2 par les bureaux des services américains de la citoyenneté et de l’immigration a été un énorme défi pour les musiciens canadiens qui se rendent aux États-Unis pour travailler. Depuis plusieurs mois, ces derniers expriment – avec raison – frustration, colère et toutes les émotions entre les deux. Sachez que la Fédération, des deux côtés de la frontière, a exercé des pressions et tenu de nombreuses réunions pour tenter de dénouer ce dossier.

Le directeur des affaires gouvernementales de l’AFM, Ben Kessler, et Liana White (qui a de nombreuses années d’expérience avec le processus des permis P-2), préparent les prochaines étapes en vue de l’entrée en fonction du nouveau gouvernement des États-Unis, en janvier. La situation restera une importante priorité jusqu’à sa résolution. Ce genre d’enjeux paraissent souvent simples à première vue, mais ils s’inscrivent toujours dans un cadre plus large et peuvent s’avérer très délicats à naviguer. Toute information pertinente vous sera communiquée au fur et à mesure des développements. 

Le mois dernier, j’ai assisté à la Conférence internationale des orchestres de la Fédération internationale des musiciens (FIM), à Malmö, en Suède. Entendre les représentants des syndicats des pays membres de la FIM parler de ce que vivent leurs musiciens m’a permis de mieux cerner et comprendre les défis auxquels font face les orchestres partout dans le monde.

Pour finir, je souhaite rendre hommage à notre personnel du bureau de la FCM, à Toronto. Ce sont les humains qui font tourner la machine, nos héros méconnus. Liana White et Susan Whitfield sont l’appui de base du bureau de la FCM depuis plusieurs années, et leur dévouement à leur travail et à nos membres est exemplaire. L’administrateur des enregistrements et des licences, Carl Schilde, et l’adjoint aux médias électroniques, Kirk Chau, assurent le fonctionnement de la Division des médias électroniques. La gestionnaire Cathy Lee, qui a célébré ses 10 ans au bureau cette année, assure la fluidité de tout ce qui concerne les Services aux membres. Ari Vangeest et Sean Henderson, agents pour l’immigration des artistes, traitent toute la documentation relative aux permis P2, et Corine Auguste assure un soutien administratif bilingue. Derniers, mais non les moindres, notre personnel sur le terrain, le représentant international pour le Canada, Bernard Leblanc, et le négociateur des Services symphoniques, Richard Sandals, appuient les 24 sections locales du Canada.

Je souhaite à tous, membres, administrateurs et employés, bonheur, santé et sécurité pour le temps des fêtes, et beaucoup de succès en 2025.