Members of SAG-AFTRA have voted overwhelmingly in favor of authorizing a strike concerning video game actors and performers. With a participation rate of 27.47% of eligible voters, a remarkable 98.32% approved the strike authorization. This development could have a significant impact on the video game industry, although it doesn't necessarily indicate that a strike will take place.
Voting Details and Implications
Out of 34,600 members who cast their ballots, nearly all voted for the strike authorization. It's crucial to understand that this approval doesn't automatically lead to a strike. Instead, it grants the union the authority to call a strike if ongoing negotiations fail to result in a satisfactory agreement.
Historical Context: Interactive Media Agreement
Earlier this month, SAG-AFTRA encouraged its members to vote on authorizing a strike to negotiate terms under its Interactive Media Agreement. This contract outlines the working conditions, compensation, and other employment terms for actors and performers in the video game industry. The union aims to reach an agreement with several video game publishers and developers.
Statements from SAG-AFTRA Leadership
SAG-AFTRA President Fran Drescher emphasized the need for urgency. "It's time for video game companies to stop playing games and get serious about reaching an agreement on this contract," Drescher said. She also pointed out that video game companies are enjoying significant profits while their performers lack a viable career path under the current terms.
Ongoing Negotiations
Since 2022, SAG-AFTRA has been in negotiations with multiple video game companies, including Activision Productions, Electronic Arts Productions, and Epic Games. The next set of bargaining sessions are scheduled for September 26, 27, and 28. Despite multiple rounds of discussions, both parties have yet to reach an agreement that satisfies the performers' needs.