“We are deeply disappointed in Microsoft’s decision to lay off thousands of workers, including union-represented CWA members, at a time when the company is prospering,” President Claude Cummings Jr. said in a statement.
“We will be bargaining with the company over these layoffs, and CWA district vice presidents Mike Davis and Derrick Osobase will remain directly involved in ensuring that our members are supported and treated with dignity throughout this proces,” continued President Cummings.
CWA and Microsoft initially developed a mutually beneficial relationship while Microsoft was purchasing Activision Blizzard. The organizations hashed out a legally binding union neutrality deal in 2022. This agreement should have provided employees a seat at the table and ensure that the acquisition of Activision Blizzard benefited the company’s workers as well as provide job security for unionized employees.
With layoffs taking place for workers, CWA union representatives are meeting with Zenimax QA leadship to prevent layoffs.
“Right now, we are living through a moment of profound corporate consolidation and disruption,” Cummings said. “In times like these, union organizing is not just a tool for protections in the workplace; it is essential to workers’ survival, and one of the strongest defenses we have against unchecked corporate power. This news will not slow the movement for a video game industry that works for those who make it what it is today. Our strength is in our unity,” concluded President Cummings.
