Unionised Activision quality assurance workers have established a strike fund to provide a financial buffer if they choose to down tools.
Last week, union workers organised under the Activision Quality Assurance United-CWA (AQAU-CWA) banner voted to authorise strike action after two years of contract negotiations with Activision.
The union is demanding wage increases, generative AI protections, and the right for workers to seek accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act—but claims negotiations with Activision have stalled and that "critical issues remain unresolved."
"After nearly two years of bargaining, repeated delays, and a refusal to meaningfully address key issues, we believe collective action is necessary to hold the company accountable and move negotiations forward," AQAU-CWA bargaining committee member Emily Danko told Vertical Slice last week.
"[...] Any decisions about extending a strike or taking further action will be made collectively and democratically, but our solidarity and commitment to securing a fair contract remain firm."
AQAU-CWA has not called a strike (yet), but now has the power to do so with the full backing of Communications Workers of America (CWA).
The Support AQAU fund has raised almost $11,000 at the time of writing.
"A strike fund helps provide financial support to workers who may face lost income while standing together to demand a fair contract. It helps make collective action more accessible and ensures that workers aren't left to shoulder the financial burden of fighting for better working conditions alone," reads a message on the freefunder website.
"Every contribution, no matter the size, helps strengthen our collective ability to stand up for ourselves and one another. If you're unable to donate, sharing this fundraiser is another powerful way to show your support."
Any funds remaining after AQAU-CWA's needs are met will be donated to United Video Game Workers to support other game industry workers facing hardship.
Responding to the very real threat of strike action, an Activision representative told Vertical Slice the studio has been working in "good faith" with the union.
"Our goal is a fair first contract that supports our QA team members and the long-term success of the business. We remain committed to open dialogue with the union and have offered to meet again on October 21 and 22," they added.
Chris is an award-winning reporter with over a decade of experience covering the video game industry. He was formerly news editor at Game Developer and is currently the founder and editor of this resplendent website.
