Equity, the UK's performing arts and entertainment union, has issued a statement of solidarity in response to the strike by the Screen Actors Guild, Performers and Video Games Guild.
The Screen Actors Guild of America has called for industry action after nearly two years of negotiations, particularly over AI protections for voice actors and motion capture artists.
The strike affects major video game companies that are signatories to the Interactive Media Agreement with the Screen Actors Guild, including Activision, Electronic Arts and Disney Character Voices. However, due to UK labour laws, Equity members cannot directly join the strike.
“We stand shoulder to shoulder with SAG-AFTRA as partners in the global fight to secure fair pay and protect the rights of our members,” said John Barclay, Equity’s Assistant Secretary General. Barclay highlighted the urgent need to address these issues in light of the advent of AI and called for transparency from UK studios and producers regarding the work they do for striking companies.
Barclay highlighted ongoing concerns in the UK video games industry, including the lack of safeguards to protect performers from the unregulated use of AI, health and safety issues and stagnant wages. He noted that while the UK video games industry has benefited from significant tax relief — nearly £200 million ($257 million) in 2022 alone — performer compensation has not kept pace with the industry’s growth.
Equity has issued a comprehensive set of FAQs to guide its members through this complex situation. The guidance explains that Equity members working in the UK must continue to work, even on projects for striking companies, due to differences in UK employment laws. The union explains that it cannot vote on strike action due to restrictive UK industrial relations legislation and the lack of collective agreements with major UK video game retailers.
The FAQ covers a variety of scenarios, including advice for SAG members working in the UK and guidance on auditions for games during a strike. Equity raises concerns about non-disclosure agreements and stresses the need for artists to inform if they work for a striking company. The union advises members not to breach contracts but warns against unreasonable changes that could undermine the SAG dispute.
Equity is urging its members to show their support for SAG-AFTRA on social media and through other organizing methods. The union is also warning against potential discrimination, noting that it is illegal for employers to treat someone less favorably based on their union membership. Equity is committed to working closely with SAG-AFTRA to address any attempts to move productions to the UK to avoid a strike.
