Bear Bellinger and Matt DaSilva join the pod squad to discuss the history of Equity membership, how the new Open Access policy aims to create a more inclusive industry, and why some theater professionals are skeptical.

Bear Bellinger is a central principal counselor for Actors’ Equity, working to advocate for fair policies and increased access for underrepresented artists. Matt De Silva, a delegate to the Actors’ Equity convention, is passionate about labor rights and the importance of union solidarity. Both are committed to fostering equity, diversity, and inclusion within the theater industry, ensuring that the next generation of performers and stage managers have more agency and protection in their careers.