The Union Communications Workers of America released a statement late last week, vowing to fight for workers’ rights amidst mass layoffs at Microsoft.
Published last week, the union said it will take all legal routes necessary to speak up for Microsoft workers and their rights. Those who are part of the union will seek the immediate opportunity to bargain over topics such as fair severance, vendor-contract decisions, and opportunities for promotion.
Recall rights will also be discussed if the union is successful in bargaining with Microsoft. Recall rights refer to the employee’s ability to be rehired following their dismissal.
The Union Communications Workers of America confirmed that they previously signed a neutrality agreement with Microsoft. In their statement, they expressed their disappointment with the video gaming company over the speed at which they have worked to secure a union contract for workers.
CWA District 2-14 Mike Davis said the union will defend workers amidst changes within the company.
“That’s the difference a union makes. Organized workers have a seat at the table on the decisions that affect their lives and families, and that includes layoffs,” said Davis per the statement. “Workers without a union are left to accept whatever cards they are dealt by management for any given decision.”
The statement was released following the recent layoffs at Microsoft. Overall, 4,800 employees will be laid off across sales and Xbox divisions. The sum is approximately 2% of their overall workforce. One-fifth of the Xbox division will be let go, including 1,600 employees who were let go last Monday. Employees will reportedly receive 39 weeks’ worth of severance pay from the company.
The cuts come as the company continues to struggle, with its stock down 19% this year.
Following the layoffs, Senator Bernie Sanders reacted to the cuts, saying that tax breaks are not the solution to creating jobs.
“Last year, Microsoft made $101 billion in profits, got a $12.5 billion tax break from Trump & paid its CEO $96 million,” said Senator Sanders per a post. “This year, it’s raising the price of an Xbox by $150 & eliminating 3,200 jobs. Please don’t tell me corporate tax breaks create jobs. It never trickles down.”
As the company continues to struggle, studios will be laid off from Xbox, as they will either be reassigned to different management or will once again be independent. Studios impacted included Ninja Theory, Undead Lab, Arkane, Double Fine Productions and Compulsion Games.
