A Better ABK calls Blizzard’s end of remote work “completely unnecessary” and another anti-union tactic

Back in February, Blizzard held a meeting that confirmed, among other things, a mandatory return to office work and an end to remote work. This matter is once again being brought to light by the proto-Union A Better ABKwhich provides more details on what has happened at the studio since then.

During the meeting, employees objected to the policy, followed by Blizzard PR, who made non-binding claims about the provision of housing. The reality, however, is very different: According to the Twitter thread, employees who made such requests were mostly turned down, while WFH requests for medical reasons were reportedly “not able to get much traction.”

It is this sluggish and open refusal that leads A Better ABK to argue that the guidelines are being put in place for “malicious” reasons: to initiate a “silent dismissal” and oust union organizers who tend to target marginalized groups such as the disabled and chronic to support sick.

When these concerns were raised in an open letter to Blizzard leadership, the proto-union reportedly received a dismissive response, stating that union membership does not necessarily guarantee the right to work from home. Finally, the group said it had filed an unfair labor practice complaint over Blizzard’s firing of employees who used foul language when expressing dissatisfaction with the mandate.

“This strict policy will harm our workers and our products, and is completely unnecessary when we have the financial means to allow employees to work from wherever they choose,” reads part of the thread. “To enact this policy without regard to the personal circumstances of hundreds of employees is an incredible disservice.”

Readers will note that Blizzard doesn’t seem to have an attrition issue, since at that February meeting President Mike Ybarra suggested those who disagree with RTO policy go elsewhere. Separately, A Better ABK reiterated its promise to “continue to deliver.” [ABK] Making leadership accountable and fighting [its] a safe workplace free from harassment and retaliation.”

On February 13, Activision Publishing announced at a quarterly meeting that its employees would be returning to the office in April. Likewise, Blizzard announced that its employees would be returning to the office in July.

— ABetterABK 💙 ABK Workers Alliance (@ABetterABK) March 19, 2023

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