ACTRA & Intimacy Coordinators
We practice safe sets.
As the industry continues to evolve and prioritize safer practices, the demand for qualified Intimacy Coordinators (ICs) has grown significantly. ICs play a pivotal role in ensuring that performances involving nudity or simulated sex are conducted with professionalism, respect, and safety. Despite these essential contributions, they often face inconsistent pay, a lack of standardized protocols, and limited access to benefits or protections – if at all.
Why join ACTRA?
By joining ACTRA, ICs can address these gaps and build a sustainable future for this growing profession. This looks like:
- Fair pay across productions: We have the tools to ensure that ICs are compensated fairly and consistently, reflecting the specialized expertise they bring to the industry.
- Defined protocols and standards: A union-negotiated agreement can establish comprehensive guidelines that outline best practices and expectations for intimacy coordination on set, protecting both the coordinator and the performers.
- Access to benefits and support: Union members gain access to health benefits, retirement plans, and advocacy resources that promote their work and safeguard its future.
SAG-AFTRA’s IC Story
Our sibling union SAG-AFTRA made significant progress in supporting intimacy coordinators: In 2020, they introduced the Standards and Protocols for the Use of Intimacy Coordinators, a landmark document that provides a clear framework for the profession – that standard is applied in Canada, as well. By 2024, ICs overwhelmingly voted to unionize with SAG-AFTRA, securing better working conditions, standardizing pay, and enhancing protections for all the people involved in intimate scenes.
ACTRA is taking steps so that Canadian ICs can receive the same level of recognition, respect, and protection. If you’re an IC interested in progressing your career, we’d love to hear from you!
Get in touch with ACTRA National’s Organizing Department below.
FAQ
What kind of protections can an ACTRA contract provide for ICs?
A union-negotiated contract establishes clear standards for working conditions, defines the scope of an ICs responsibilities, and ensures that ICs have the authority to pause or intervene if safety protocols are not being followed. It also creates mechanisms for addressing concerns or grievances without fear of retaliation.
How will unionizing impact the rates I currently negotiate with productions?
Unionizing introduces standardized rates of pay across productions, preventing undercutting or inconsistent compensation. You could negotiate rates above the minimum if your experience or expertise warrants higher compensation.
Will unionizing affect my ability to work on non-union productions?
Unionizing empowers ICs by establishing strong, standardized rates that protect against pay cuts and inconsistent compensation, which is often a circumstance of non-union productions/work. By building a collective of ICs, ACTRA ensures that everyone’s expertise is valued, safeguarded, and still allows experienced ICs to negotiate rates above the minimum and reflect their unique contributions.
How will unionizing impact freelance ICs who do multiple projects?
ACTRA membership provides freelance ICs with stability through access to benefits, pension plans, and protections that apply across all union-covered projects, regardless of how many productions they work on.
What if I already have strong working relationships with producers and directors?
Unionizing does not disrupt established relationships – instead, it formalizes protections and ensures that ICs are treated fairly, consistently and respectfully, regardless of production. It also provides a collective voice to advocate for the continued growth, protection, and recognition of the profession.
How will unionizing impact how I’m hired for projects?
An ACTRA agreement can help formalize hiring processes, so that ICs are hired based on their expertise and credentials. It can also introduce transparency in hiring practices, preventing favouritism or inconsistent selection criteria.
What kind of training or resources will be available to ACTRA ICs?
ACTRA memberships for ICs will create opportunities to establish a network of accredited institutions, and trusted industry partners to provide specialized training and resources. As we move further along in this process, ACTRA aims to develop ongoing professional development programs that ensure members stay current, with best practices, legal standards, and evolving industry expectations. A collective of ICs gives us the strength to build a solid foundation and standard for continuous growth and education in this profession.
Will unionizing help improve diversity and inclusion within the field?
Yes, becoming an ACTRA member promotes hiring practices that are equitable, so that diverse voices and experiences are represented. ACTRA advocates for more opportunities and mentorship for underrepresented communities in the field.