CWA Union Members Unaffected by Microsoft Layoffs, Despite Tweet Suggesting Otherwise
In a surprising turn of events, the Communications Workers of America (CWA) labor union has announced that none of its members were impacted by the recent layoffs at Microsoft and Activision Blizzard. This comes as a relief to many workers who were concerned about their job security in the wake of the seismic layoffs.
The CWA currently represents hundreds of employees within subsidiaries of the newly-merged conglomerate, such as ZeniMax Studios, Raven Software, and Blizzard Albany. In a statement to Game Developer, the union urged workers across the game industry to organize and ensure that they have a say in decisions regarding layoffs.
“Microsoft’s announcement that it will be laying off 1,900 video game workers makes clear that, even when you work at a successful company in an extremely profitable industry, your livelihood is not protected without a voice on the job,” said a CWA spokesperson. “Every video game worker deserves not only their fair share but also the peace of mind that comes from having a say over the impact of job cuts.”
The union emphasized the importance of organizing and establishing workplace practices that protect workers from layoffs. They believe that through union representation and the bargaining process, video game workers can achieve greater transparency and policies that prioritize their needs.
Wayne Dayberry, a senior QA tester and member of ZeniMax Workers United-CWA within Microsoft, echoed these sentiments. He emphasized the need for workers to come together and protect each other, stating, “Companies will claim that we’re all a family, but a family doesn’t lay off or outsource people. It’s clear that one way or the other, the only way forward is for all of us to come together as workers to protect each other.”
While union representation cannot always prevent layoffs, it can provide workers with a platform to negotiate for greater transparency and layoff protections. The CWA pledged to continue supporting workers at Microsoft and throughout the industry who wish to have a union voice.
Interestingly, the CWA initially opposed Microsoft’s merger with Activision Blizzard and called on the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to closely scrutinize the deal. However, after entering into a labor neutrality agreement with Microsoft, which allows workers to freely unionize, the CWA eventually supported the merger.
The issue of unionization within the video game industry has been a topic of discussion for some time. The GDC 2024 State of the Industry report revealed that while the majority of developers support unionization, very few are actively discussing it in the workplace. Prominent figures, such as former Bungie chief legal officer Don McGowan, have called on developers to unionize to combat unfair employment practices.
Game Developer reached out to the CWA to inquire about advice for developers interested in pursuing unionization. The union’s response could provide valuable insights for those looking to take the first steps on this path.
The recent news of CWA union members being unaffected by the Microsoft layoffs highlights the importance of union representation in the video game industry. It underscores the need for workers to have a voice and an opportunity to bargain over decisions that impact their livelihoods. As the industry continues to evolve, it is clear that unionization can play a crucial role in protecting workers’ rights and ensuring a fair and equitable work environment.
