The Communications Workers of America (CWA) today filed charges against publisher Activision—a company with a long track record of alleged anti-unionism– Allegation that the publisher violated several labor laws in connection with the firing of two QA testers.
The fees refer to those of Activision The recent decision to force workers back into the office has met with opposition from the company’s workforce
“Two QA testers expressed their outrage with strong language. In response, management instituted disciplinary talks, during which both workers were fired.”
The CWA argues that “the use of outbursts and strong language in connection with concerted employee activity was protected by the National Labor Relations Board until prior to 2020,” before the Trump administration “systematically rolled back workers’ rights, including changing the standards to determine.” whether employees have been lawfully disciplined or fired after making offensive language, ultimately limiting employees’ freedom of expression.”
The charges were brought directly against Activision CEO Bobby Kotick, alleging that the layoffs – which took place on February 17 – were “in response to [the employee’s] Participation in protected, coordinated and union activities”. The CWA also alleges that Activision “unduly denied a request to have an employee witness the disciplinary hearing that preceded the termination [their] Employment”.
“For far too long, Activision has gotten away with treating its employees, especially QA testers, like disposable workhorses. Firing two employees for joining forces with their colleagues to express concern about the hasty return-to-office policy is clearly retaliatory,” said CWA Secretary and Treasurer Sara Steffens. “When workers are confronted with unfair treatment by unscrupulous employers like Activision, they should have the right to speak up.”
Activision has been contacted for comment.