SAG-AFTRA Members Overwhelmingly Vote to Authorize Video Game Strike
In a resounding show of solidarity, members of the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) have voted overwhelmingly in favor of authorizing a strike against ten major video game companies. The vote, which received an astounding 98.32% approval from members, paves the way for a potential strike if negotiations fail to produce a satisfactory agreement. This development comes as the guild is already engaged in an ongoing strike against the film and TV industry since July 14.
A total of 34,687 SAG-AFTRA members cast their ballots, accounting for 27.47% of eligible voters. The guild’s board and negotiating committee had unanimously recommended the authorization vote, which required a 75% approval rate to pass. It is important to note that the vote does not automatically initiate a strike but furnishes the national board with the authority to call for one if negotiations prove fruitless.
The video game companies and the guild will resume negotiations on Tuesday, and with the strike authorization now in effect, a strike could potentially occur anytime thereafter. Discussions surrounding the guild’s video game contract, known as the Interactive Media Agreement, have been ongoing for nearly a year since its original expiration date. However, the guild expressed disappointment in the companies’ failure to address their needs during the negotiations that led to the strike authorization.
The focal points of concern in the video game industry echo those of the ongoing film and TV strike, with wages and artificial intelligence emerging as crucial themes. SAG-AFTRA President Fran Drescher, addressing the press on September 1, emphasized the guild’s commitment to standing up for its members against employer greed and disrespect. Drescher also highlighted the potential threat posed by artificial intelligence that could diminish work opportunities for guild members.
The ten companies currently facing the possibility of a strike are:
– The issues at stake in the negotiations between SAG-AFTRA and these video game companies deeply impact the livelihoods and future of industry individuals who are continuously contributing to the delivery of world-class entertainment to billions of players worldwide. Acknowledging this, Audrey Cooling, the spokesperson for the video game companies, stressed the shared objective of reaching a fair contract that accurately reflects the valuable contributions of SAG-AFTRA performers. Cooling expressed hope for a mutually beneficial resolution in good faith and looks forward to reaching an agreement as soon as possible.
The looming prospect of a dual strike in both the film and TV as well as the video game sectors signifies a critical moment for the SAG-AFTRA guild. With negotiations set to resume, the guild remains steadfast in its pursuit of fair working conditions and compensation for its members, while also recognizing the demands and unique challenges posed by the ever-evolving landscape of the entertainment industry. As the countdown begins for the potential strike, the outcome of the negotiations will undoubtedly shape the future of SAG-AFTRA and the entertainment industry as a whole.
