SAG-AFTRA canceled today’s picketing due to safety concerns regarding the Hamas calling for a day of action on the 13th. While the union posted words of encouragement on Instagram after talks fell through, they felt it was necessary to have “an abundance of caution for our members.”

On Wednesday, Reuters reported how former Hamas leader Khaled Meshaal called for heavy protests against Israel, encouraging jihad scholars that “this is a moment for the application (of theories).” There is no definitive news regarding the results of this statement in America, but the NYPD and the LAPD have increased their patrols in Muslim and Jewish communities.

SAG-AFTRA encouraged this caution yesterday with a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, announcing that all picket lines in Los Angeles and New York will be closed on Friday. However, they still encouraged members to return to the picket lines next week to continue their work.

In light of potential safety concerns that are unrelated to our ongoing strike, there will be no SAG-AFTRA pickets in New York City or Los Angeles on Friday, Oct. 13. Stay safe and see you on the picket lines next week. #SagAftraStrong #SagAftraStrike pic.twitter.com/dpCyM0PTvh

— SAG-AFTRA (@sagaftra) October 13, 2023

Based on their statement yesterday, the union has no plans to slow down despite this shutdown. In their post, SAG-AFTRA denounced the studios for negligence and for walking out of the negotiations. They then call for everyone in the industry who struck and are striking to stay in solidarity with each other.

“Our resolve is unwavering. Join us on picket lines and at solidarity events around the country and let your voices be heard,” they announce.