UK performing arts and entertainment union Equity has shared its support for the SAG-AFTRA video game strike announced yesterday.
In a statement posted on its website, deputy general secretary John Barclay said Equity “stands in full solidarity” with its sister union which “took the courageous decision to authorise a strike against US video game companies”.
“Voice capture and acting artists are a vital part of this multi-billion dollar industry, bringing to life the characters that make games successful,” Barclay said.
“We are working side by side with SAG-AFTRA as partners in a global fight to ensure fair pay and protect the rights of our members, which could not be more urgent as we move forward with innovation in artificial intelligence.”
Due to UK law, Equity is unable to join the strike as artists who wish to take part will have no legal protection from dismissal or being sued for breach of contract.
Equity has issued guidance for SAG-AFTRA members who are employed in the UK to work for striking companies.
It has advised Equity members to continue working and uphold their contractual obligations, and SAG-AFTRA members working in the UK to do the same, as the US-based union is “not authorized to discipline (members) for continuing to work” under UK law.
Barclay added: “In light of the strike authorisation, studios, producers and game developers operating in the UK have an obligation to be transparent with artists and inform our members if they are commissioning work for a company on strike. Excessive confidentiality agreements should not be used to undermine the bargaining position of creative workers.”