Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1530033
sagaftra.org | Fall/Winter 2024 | SAG-AFTRA 63 W hen the strike against major video game companies was called on July 26, less than eight months after the resolution of the 118-day TV/Theatrical/Streaming strike, SAG-AFTRA members and leadership understood this was a pivotal moment. They knew that the misuse of artificial intelligence poses an even greater immediate threat for video game actors than it does for those who work in television and film, since the capabilities of A.I. to clone voice and movement are particularly advanced. Without restrictions, generative artificial intelligence gives employers the tools to use actors' own performances to attempt to replace them. It's a matter of basic fairness that actors should be asked for consent and be compensated when their work is used to create digital doubles. And those are the central issues: consent, compensation and transparency on how their digital doubles will be used. The union isn't anti-technology or against the very existence of A.I; it understands that new technologies are bound to emerge that change the nature of members' work — that's been true since SAG and AFTRA were founded in the 1930s. What's critical, however, is that these tools be used to empower and enhance human creativity, not eliminate it. It's disheartening — and a bit telling — that the largest video game companies are so intransigent on something so basic as an issue of consent. But members aren't sitting around being disappointed; since the strike began, there has been a flurry of activity. Actors and allies have been on the picket lines, demonstrating unity and making their voices heard. They have been speaking out publicly and on social media, an Action Network petition supporting the strikers has drawn a great response, and more than two dozen labor organizations have issued statements of support. Labor leaders and those who work the Interactive Media Agreement have been carrying the message to conferences and conventions, such as L.A. Opposite page, SAG-AFTRA members and supporters gathered at WB Games Inc. on Oct. 16 to demand a fair contract. Above left, SAG-AFTRA members and supporters rally in New York City on Sept. 7. Above, members picketing in front of Formosa Studios' offices on Nov. 14. Left, SAG-AFTRA National Executive Director & Chief Negotiator Duncan Crabtree-Ireland and Interactive Media Agreement Negotiating Committee member Zeke Alton at Disney Character Voices on Sept. 18. ROB LATOUR/SUTTERSTOCK FOR SAG-AFTRA DEREK FRENCH/SHUTTERSTOCK