Solidarity in Gaming: Support Fired Rockstar Workers with Union Merch

Former Rockstar Staff Encourage Support Through Union Merchandise

A group of 34 former Rockstar employees who were terminated last year amidst a legal dispute with the company have made a plea to their supporters. They are urging people not to boycott the highly anticipated GTA 6 but instead to consider showing solidarity by purchasing specially-designed union merchandise to assist in covering legal costs.

The firings occurred in November of last year, with the primary issue stemming from discussions in a union-operated Discord server regarding a new Slack policy at the company. Rockstar alleged that the staff leaked confidential information on a public platform, while the Independent Workers’ Union of Great Britain (IWGB) countered with accusations of union busting.

As the final trial in the ongoing legal battle is scheduled to commence on September 10th, the IWGB and the terminated developers have outlined their preferred method of support. Rather than advocating for a boycott of GTA 6, they are encouraging individuals to purchase specially-designed union t-shirts. The proceeds from these sales will contribute to the fired developers’ “Fighting Fund”.

“We dedicated years of our lives to the creation of this game. We do not want fans to boycott it. Instead, we urge you to join us in our pursuit of justice,” expressed Jack Hoxby, a member of the IWGB Game Workers branch and a former Rockstar employee. “Since our abrupt dismissal by Rockstar last year, we have received overwhelming support from gamers and workers worldwide. Some have considered boycotting GTA VI as a form of protest on our behalf. However, there is a more effective way to show support and hold Rockstar accountable.”

“By purchasing one of our T-shirts, you will be aiding in our quest for justice and defending the rights of workers to unite and form unions. This way, when GTA VI is released in November, you can enjoy the game knowing that you stood by the individuals who contributed to its creation.”

The ‘Rockstar 34 Solidarity t-shirts’ are currently available for pre-order on the IWGB Game Workers’ website for £25. The pre-order window will remain open until August 30th, with the shirts expected to begin shipping by mid-September.

Amidst the prolonged legal battle following last year’s terminations, the remaining Rockstar employees and the IWGB have established the Rockstar Games Workers Union and are actively seeking recognition from the company.