The Actors' Fidelity League was a short-lived union that emerged as a rival to the Actors' Equity Association in the early 20th century. Formed in 1919, the League was established by actors who opposed the strike tactics and trade unionism adopted by Equity. Despite its initial growth, the League struggled to maintain its influence and eventually became defunct by 1930. This article explores the history, challenges, and eventual decline of the Actors' Fidelity League.
Formation and Early Growth
The Actors' Fidelity League was founded on August 22, 1919, as a response to the Actors' Equity Association's affiliation with the American Federation of Labor (AFL) and its adoption of strike tactics. The League was formed by actors who believed in collective bargaining but opposed breaking contracts once signed. Initially, the League attracted over 2,000 members, many of whom were disillusioned with Equity's approach to labor disputes.
The League's formation was driven by prominent figures like E. H. Sothern, who initially supported Equity but later resigned due to disagreements over strike tactics. The League's constitution emphasized the inviolability of individual contracts and established a permanent board for arbitration, composed of actors and managers. Despite its promising start, the League faced challenges in maintaining its membership and influence.
Challenges and Decline
The Actors' Fidelity League faced significant challenges in its efforts to rival the Actors' Equity Association. Equity's affiliation with the AFL strengthened its position, as other crafts within the AFL, such as stagehands and musicians, supported Equity during labor disputes. The League's membership declined sharply after the settlement of the 1919 strike, and further decreased when Equity imposed a closed shop on independent producers in 1921.
The League's inability to enforce its contracts and the lack of support from major producers contributed to its decline. Despite efforts to attract members by offering benefits like medical assistance and relief funds, the League struggled to compete with Equity's growing influence. By 1920, Fidelity's membership had dwindled to 700, and the League's activities became increasingly limited.
Final Years and Legacy
The Actors' Fidelity League continued to exist for several years after its decline, but its influence waned significantly. By 1930, the League was holding its annual elections in private homes, indicating its reduced status. George M. Cohan, a prominent figure in the League, was re-elected as president in 1930, but the League's activities were minimal.
The League's legacy is marked by its attempt to provide an alternative to Equity's approach to labor relations in the theater industry. While it ultimately failed to sustain its influence, the League's formation highlighted the diverse perspectives within the acting community regarding trade unionism and labor disputes. Today, the Actors' Fidelity League serves as a historical example of the challenges faced by rival unions in the early 20th century.
