BREAKING: Striking SAG-AFTRA Video Game Workers

IATSE Stands in Solidarity with Striking SAG-AFTRA Video Game Workers

In a significant show of unity within the entertainment industry, the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) has declared full solidarity and support for the SAG-AFTRA video game workers as they prepare to strike against major video game companies. The strike is set to begin at 12:01 a.m. tomorrow, highlighting a critical moment for labor rights in the rapidly evolving world of video game development.

The Strike's Catalyst: AI Implementation

SAG-AFTRA's decision to strike underscores a pressing issue: the fair and equitable treatment of video game workers, particularly concerning the implementation of artificial intelligence (AI) in their workplaces. The decision to strike is never taken lightly and represents a final measure when negotiations fail to meet the union members' priorities. This strike aims to address the potential displacement and outsourcing of jobs due to AI, an issue that resonates across the entire entertainment industry.

IATSE's Stance on AI and Workers' Rights

IATSE has been a staunch advocate for workers' rights within the video game industry. The union firmly believes that all workers deserve the protections and benefits that come with union representation, including strong AI contracts. These contracts are crucial in preventing workers from being replaced or having their roles outsourced due to AI advancements. IATSE's recent Basic and Area Standards Negotiations, along with SAG-AFTRA's film and TV contract with studios last year, have already seen significant victories in this area.

A Unified Front

Matthew D. Loeb, IATSE International President, expressed unwavering support for the striking workers, stating, "We are proud to continue to stand shoulder to shoulder with our SAG-AFTRA sisters, brothers, and kin. Their fight against the misuse of AI in the video game industry is a shared fight all entertainment workers’ unions are taking head-on. Just as we secured robust AI protections in our contracts, we support SAG-AFTRA’s demand for fair treatment and comprehensive AI safeguards. Standing together is the only way we can ensure technological development does not come at the expense of workers’ rights and livelihoods.”

Rallying the Industry

As SAG-AFTRA video game workers take this courageous step, IATSE calls on all members of the entertainment industry to rally behind their cause. The issues faced by these workers are not isolated; they are part of a broader struggle for labor protections in the face of technological advancements. The solidarity shown here serves as a powerful reminder of the collective strength of the entertainment labor community.

Building Momentum

IATSE also encourages other video game workers to join the labor movement. The momentum generated by the SAG-AFTRA strike can serve as a catalyst for broader change within the industry. By uniting under the banner of gameworkers.org, more video game workers can secure the rights and protections they deserve.

The upcoming strike by SAG-AFTRA video game workers is a pivotal moment in the ongoing fight for fair treatment and protections against the unchecked implementation of AI. With IATSE standing firmly by their side, this strike symbolizes the broader struggle for workers' rights in the entertainment industry. As technological advancements continue to reshape the workplace, solidarity and collective action remain the most potent tools for ensuring that progress does not come at the expense of workers' livelihoods.