Surprising no-one, Wizards of the Coast ‘doesn’t intend to voluntarily recognize’ union efforts for the second time this year
Wizards of the Coast has announced it will not voluntarily recognize the newly formed union representing employees from its D&D and Studio X departments. The United Wizards of the Coast Union (UWOTC-CWA), affiliated with the Communications Workers of America, revealed the company’s refusal to recognize the union units ahead of scheduled union elections.
The initial unionization effort began in June when Magic: The Gathering Arena employees formed a union, with WoTC given until May to voluntarily recognize it. The company declined to do so, and later that same month sent letters to employees regarding the unionization effort—the second instance this year of WoTC refusing to voluntarily recognize union organizing.
The union stated in an announcement via X that it “remains committed to creating a workplace focused on wellness, transparency, and collaboration by winning our coming election,” indicating it will proceed with formal union elections despite the company’s refusal to voluntarily recognize the units. The dispute reflects broader tensions in the gaming industry over labor practices and worker organizing efforts.