AFTRA, also known as the American Federation of Television and Radio Artists, is a national labor union that represents more than 70,000 performers, journalists and other artists who work in the entertainment and news industrie. With a location in New York City, AFTRA organizes seminars for the development of life skills and audition techniques. The association supports for equal employment opportunities for minorities and women in the broadcast and entertainment industries. AFTRA provides opportunities for members to meet casting directors and agents. It publishes talent guides that provide information on topics related to dramatics, music, comedy and sports. AFTRA also represents artists and journalists in judicial proceedings. It offers employer-paid health and retirement plans, as well as mental health care and substance abuse prevention programs. The association advocates for legislative and public policy issues that affect members wages and working conditions. The American Federation of Television and Radio Artists is affiliated with the American Federation of Labor and the Congress of Industrial Organizations.