The following is a statement from Jonathan Jackson, CEO of Milwaukee Film:
“Like many other organizations, Milwaukee Film has experienced a significant financial toll due to the coronavirus pandemic, which led us to shut down the Oriental Theatre in mid-March and to plan for a primarily virtual 2020 Milwaukee Film Festival. In April, we were able to secure federal Paycheck Protection Program funds in order to retain our entire staff through the end of June. Since then, additional relief funds have not been made available, and the near-term business outlook for independent cinemas and art institutions has not improved.
“Because of these factors, as of July 1 we have made significant changes to our staff, including a mix of layoffs, furloughs, salary reductions, and other employment status changes, affecting every member of our team. Our dedicated staff has put in an incredible amount of time and effort to expand our mission and our connection with the community, and none of these decisions were made lightly – nor would any of them have been made outside of this pandemic.
“We are hopeful that the day when we’ll again welcome large crowds to our cinema and events is not too far off in the future. Until then, we’ll continue to work to ensure Milwaukee Film is able to weather the unprecedented challenges of our times.”
Posted by: Tom Fuchs