Fund to Join Local 600

Hi, my name is Ashley Jackson. The purpose of this GoFundMe is to help me pay the initiation fees for the union so that I can take the next big step in my filmmaking career. This will enable me to work behind the camera in the camera department (a heavily gatekept department), afford a better lifestyle for my family and also afford to eventually create my own projects in the long run. This journey started during covid. With more time on my hands I decided to change careers, I started taking film courses at Long Beach City College, all paid for out of pocket, and that gave me the opportunity to work at a rental house as an unpaid intern. This definitely was a burden on my growing family as my fiancé was pregnant while I worked for free two days a week, commuting several miles a day. After my internship I was able to get into a reputable rental house that allows me to network, learn the skills I need, and do something I really love and enjoy. I’ve been here a year now and it’s about time to take the next step and start working on set. Unfortunately with inflation and life emergencies I have depleted the funds needed to pay into the lowest position on camera crew and it would take quite a bit of time for me to save up for it. Given that, I am reaching out to community and helpful strangers alike to try to raise at least a portion of the funds. I am looking for 25% of the total initiation fees which is about $1500. Total would be $5280 and from there payments can be made. I would be blessed to reach this goal but I understand how finances are constrained for many right now. That being said, anything helps.

This would not only help me in my personal life but would also get more representation for queer Black people behind the camera … A concept the average person doesn’t think about and rarely is seen on sets. It’s important for us not to only be seen on camera but also having a part in how stories are told and shot. We do that by uplifting others who may not have the opportunity to buy their way into the industry. Thank you so much for reading my story. Please share!