There once was a Union Maid…

Holiday Basket Delivery with Tyne Daly

who never was afraid...

I learned that song at Camp Hemshekh when I was 12 years old, and at the time I had no idea how Woody Guthrie’s words would affect the rest of my life.

When I told my parents that I was going to run for a seat on the National Council of Actors’ Equity Association, my Mom said, “I wish your Zeyde could see you now…” My grandfather, Abe Littman, was Vice President of the foreign language local of the Printers Union, and he worked as a contributor and typesetter for Jewish Daily Forward – The Forverts – until the end of his life. Not a day goes by that I don’t think of his commitment to his craft and his ideals.

Delivering Falat Holiday Baskets to Beth Israel Hospital

As a member of the Labor Movement, I’m proud of what I do for my Union and for my fellow Actors. I have served as a Chorus Councilor for over a decade, and I continue to be grateful for the opportunity to represent my colleagues in the Chorus, as well as Principals and Stage Managers.  I was re-elected in 2009 for my third term, and hope to be able to continue my service for as long as I can.

I’ve also followed in my Mom and Dad’s footsteps as a board member and Activist for the Workmen’s Circle/Arbeter Ring. As Chair of the Committee for Social and Economic Justice from 2004-2008, I worked with fellow Activists who share my commitment to a shenere un besere velt – a better and more beautiful world.

I was recently inspired to put down a couple of thoughts about “Life on the Road”, and the result was a little primer of Do’s and Don’ts that I’d love to share to share with fellow Actors and Travelers…