Amidst a rapidly evolving industry, workers in the U.S. and Canada have united under a new banner to champion fair labor practices and secure the future of game development. This movement, led by dedicated professionals, seeks to redefine the standards for employment within one of the world's most lucrative sectors.
Harnessing Collective Strength for Industry Transformation
The formation of a new union represents a pivotal moment in the history of videogame development, promising stability and respect for all contributors. As the industry continues to expand, this initiative is set to reshape how talent is valued and protected.Uniting Forces Across Borders
A groundbreaking alliance has emerged between the Communications Workers of America (CWA) and the American Federation of Musicians (AFM), uniting videogame professionals from across the United States and Canada. Announced at the prestigious 2025 Game Developers Conference in San Francisco, this coalition marks a significant milestone in the quest for equitable treatment within the gaming sector. By joining forces, these organizations aim to amplify the voices of those who craft the immersive experiences enjoyed globally.Professionals from diverse backgrounds now stand together, advocating for systemic change. Their collective efforts focus on addressing the challenges faced by freelancers, contractors, and marginalized groups within the industry. This unified front ensures that no contributor is left behind in the pursuit of a more inclusive and supportive work environment.A Call to Action: Securing Rights Through Advocacy
In response to widespread layoffs and studio closures, members of the newly formed Videogame Workers-CWA Local 9433 are mobilizing support through a compelling petition. This initiative demands dignity and job security for all participants in the gaming ecosystem. Despite the industry’s impressive revenue growth—exceeding expectations year after year—thousands of jobs were lost in recent years, with over 25,000 positions eliminated since 2023 alone.This alarming trend underscores the urgent need for robust worker protections. The petition serves as a rallying cry, urging stakeholders to prioritize long-term sustainability over fleeting profits. By gathering signatures, the union aims to demonstrate the overwhelming support for reform and highlight the critical importance of safeguarding talented individuals whose contributions define the gaming landscape.Five Years of Progress: Building Momentum
The establishment of Videogame Workers-CWA Local 9433 coincides with the fifth anniversary of CODE-CWA, an organization that has empowered over 6,500 tech and game workers to unionize since its inception in 2020. This remarkable achievement reflects the growing awareness and commitment to fostering fair labor practices within the digital entertainment sphere.Under the leadership of CWA president Claude Cummings Jr., this movement continues to gain traction. Cummings emphasizes the necessity of empowering workers whose creativity fuels the industry yet often remains undervalued. He highlights the detrimental effects of corporate consolidation, which frequently prioritizes profit maximization at the expense of employee welfare. By challenging this paradigm, the union strives to ensure that every individual involved in game creation receives the recognition and benefits they deserve.Visionary Goals: Shaping the Industry’s Future
The mission of UVW-CWA extends beyond immediate concerns, envisioning a transformative shift in how the gaming industry operates. Central to this vision is the empowerment of all contributors, including laid-off employees, independent contractors, and underrepresented voices. The union advocates for a model where innovation thrives alongside respect and investment in human capital.Tom Smith, CWA senior director of organizing, underscores the collaborative nature of this endeavor. He acknowledges the tireless efforts of countless workers who have paved the way for this historic moment. These pioneers exemplify the power of unity, demonstrating that when individuals come together, they can achieve monumental change. As the global gaming community looks forward to the next chapter, the principles championed by UVW-CWA promise to elevate standards and foster an environment where creativity flourishes unencumbered by unjust practices.READ MORE