In recent years, the video game industry has seen a surge in the number of workers speaking out about labor rights and working conditions. Game Workers Unite, a grassroots organization that advocates for game industry workers, has been at the forefront of this movement. In Montreal, one chapter of Game Workers Unite has emerged as a strong voice for change in the industry.

Game Workers Unite Montreal is a volunteer-run organization that aims to bring together video game industry workers in Quebec to advocate for better working conditions, fair pay, and improved job security. The group is made up of individuals working in various roles within the industry, including programmers, artists, designers, and writers. They have been actively campaigning for improved labor rights and collective bargaining agreements to protect workers from exploitation and abuse.

One of the key issues that Game Workers Unite Montreal has been focusing on is the prevalence of unpaid overtime in the industry. Many game developers are expected to work long hours, often without additional compensation, in order to meet tight deadlines and deliver a finished product. This practice not only takes a toll on the physical and mental health of workers, but it also perpetuates a culture of overwork that is unsustainable in the long run.

In addition to advocating for fair working conditions, Game Workers Unite Montreal is also working to address issues of diversity and representation in the industry. They believe that a more inclusive and diverse workforce will lead to better games and a more vibrant and creative industry overall. By promoting initiatives that support marginalized communities and advocate for equal opportunities for all, the organization hopes to shape a more inclusive and equitable industry in Quebec.

Game Workers Unite Montreal is part of a larger international movement that is gaining momentum in the video game industry. As more workers come together to demand better working conditions and fair treatment, game companies are being forced to reckon with the need for change. By organizing and mobilizing workers, Game Workers Unite Montreal is playing a crucial role in shaping the future of the industry in Quebec and beyond.