Raven Software Union Accuses Activision Blizzard and Microsoft of Bad Faith Bargaining
In a significant development within the gaming industry, unionized workers at Raven Software have filed a formal complaint against their parent companies, Activision Blizzard and Microsoft, with the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB). The complaint alleges that these corporate giants have engaged in ‘bad faith bargaining’ and ‘concerted activities,’ which can include retaliation and disciplinary actions against employees. This move comes as unionized employees at Raven Software strive to secure a collective bargaining agreement with their employer, a process that has been fraught with challenges and setbacks.
The specifics of what the union hopes to achieve in a potential new contract remain unclear at this point. However, the initial optimism that followed the studio’s unionization has significantly waned. According to Claude Cummings Jr., president of the Communications Workers of America (CWA), workers were initially hopeful that Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard would expedite the process of reaching a first contract at Raven Software. Unfortunately, this optimism has not translated into tangible progress, leading to the current impasse.
The CWA has urged Microsoft to address the concerns raised in the complaint and prioritize reaching a fair agreement with the unionized workers. It’s worth noting that Microsoft signed a labor neutrality agreement with the CWA in 2022, which has since been extended to cover Zenimax workers. This agreement allows workers to freely choose union representation without interference from the company. Despite this, the union alleges that meaningful progress in negotiations has been elusive, with multiple bargaining sessions failing to yield substantial results.
Microsoft has responded to the complaint by stating that they remain committed to negotiating in good faith. However, according to Game File, Raven workers have participated in numerous bargaining sessions with management since the union’s formation in 2022, yet have not made significant headway. This ongoing stalemate has led to increased frustration among the unionized employees, who feel that their concerns are not being adequately addressed.
Raven Software’s unionization in 2022 marked a significant milestone in the gaming industry, as it was one of the first major unions to form within a game studio. At the time, Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard was still pending, and there was hope that the new ownership would bring about positive changes. However, the lack of progress towards a fair contract has cast a shadow over these initial hopes, leading to the current situation where the union feels compelled to take legal action.
The complaint filed with the NLRB also includes allegations of changes in employment terms and retaliation against workers. While the specific details of these allegations have not been disclosed, they add another layer of complexity to an already contentious situation. The CWA president has expressed disappointment in the lack of progress and has called on Microsoft to live up to its commitments under the labor neutrality agreement.
In response to the ongoing issues, the CWA has been actively assisting workers in the gaming industry with forming unions and advocating for their rights. This support has been crucial in helping workers navigate the often challenging process of unionization and collective bargaining. The formation of unions within the gaming industry has been a growing trend in recent years, as workers seek to improve their working conditions and secure better pay and benefits.
The case of Raven Software highlights the broader push for unionization within the gaming industry and the challenges that workers face in achieving fair treatment. Despite the initial optimism surrounding Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard, the reality has been a prolonged struggle for the unionized workers at Raven Software. The complaint filed with the NLRB is a clear indication of the frustration and dissatisfaction that has built up over the past year.
The ongoing situation at Raven Software is being closely watched by other workers and unions within the gaming industry. The outcome of this case could have significant implications for future unionization efforts and collective bargaining agreements. As the industry continues to evolve, the role of unions in advocating for workers’ rights and ensuring fair treatment will likely become increasingly important.
It’s also worth noting that the issues at Raven Software are not isolated incidents. Other studios and workers within the gaming industry have faced similar challenges in their efforts to unionize and secure fair contracts. For example, QA workers at Blizzard’s Albany-based studio also formed a union due to delays and pushback from the parent company. Additionally, Activision Blizzard’s refusal to recognize the union of its subsidiary, Proletariat, further underscores the ongoing struggles within the industry.
The recent firing of a team of employees at a QA testing company contracted by Microsoft, who were attempting to unionize, adds another layer of complexity to the situation. These events highlight the broader challenges that workers face in their efforts to unionize and advocate for their rights within the gaming industry. The ongoing struggles between workers and corporate entities underscore the need for continued advocacy and support from organizations like the CWA.
As the case of Raven Software continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how these union efforts will impact the treatment and working conditions of employees within the gaming industry. The outcome of the complaint filed with the NLRB could set a precedent for future unionization efforts and collective bargaining agreements. For now, the unionized workers at Raven Software remain steadfast in their pursuit of a fair contract and better working conditions, highlighting the ongoing fight for workers’ rights within the gaming industry.