Yesterday, Microsoft announced plans to lay off approximately 9,000 employees across the company, including from its Microsoft Gaming division. The layoffs will also result in the cessation of production on several games. These job cuts are expected to affect employees represented by the Communications Workers of America (CWA).
“We are deeply disappointed in Microsoft’s decision to lay off thousands more workers, including union-represented CWA members, at a time when the company is prospering,” stated Claude Cummings Jr., President of the Communications Workers of America. “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 process.”
The video game industry has seen frequent layoffs recently, affecting companies such as Electronic Arts, Sony Interactive Entertainment, and Unity Technologies. These job cuts often occur without prior notice, leaving workers who contribute significantly to these companies’ successes facing uncertainty while executives benefit from high profits.
“Right now, we are living through a moment of profound corporate consolidation and disruption,” said Cummings. “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.”
