Dark Horse Comics employees ask for a union

Employees at Dark Horse Comics, known for popular publications such as Star Wars, Cyberpunk and Avatar: The Last Airbender, have announced plans to form a union. The effort is being organized in partnership with the Communications Workers of America (CWA).

Reasons and goals behind the union

A group calling itself Dark Horse Workers United sent a letter to interim CEO Jay Komas requesting voluntary recognition of the union. In total, 59 employees signed the letter. The letter asks for recognition by June 1, although the union’s website also lists a June 3 deadline, which has been requested for confirmation.

The organizers want improvements in working conditions and say they want to preserve the legacy of founder Mike Richardson, who left the company earlier this year. Dark Horse Comics was acquired by Embracer Group in 2022.

Background

The push to unionize comes amid turmoil at the company, with recent layoffs, a freeze on wages and hiring, and a leadership change that has raised concerns among staff. The rise of artificial intelligence and return-to-office policies, despite the economic impact on workers, are also contributing to the desire for organization and representation within the company.

Why union organizing matters

The organizers stress the importance of a democratic workplace and argue that collective action is the best way to address their concerns. The call for voluntary recognition has been made public, and the union is asking supporters to sign the petition.

If voluntary recognition is not granted by the deadline, the employees plan to file for a union election with the National Labor Relations Board.

This movement is part of a broader trend across the game and entertainment industries, where workers are increasingly organizing and pushing for better working conditions. In recent years, several companies, including other studios under Microsoft, have taken similar steps.

Dark Horse Workers United hopes its initiative will not only improve its own conditions, but also set a precedent that could inspire other companies to take similar action. The future of the organizing effort and its request for recognition is expected to draw significant attention across the wider industry.