Ubisoft Employees Rally at Grande Parade Against Studio Closure

Ubisoft employees and supporters will gather at Grande Parade in Halifax to protest the sudden closure of Ubisoft Halifax. The rally is scheduled for 10 a.m. on Thursday. This event comes less than a month after the studio closed its doors on January 7, shortly after workers formed a union.

Background of the Closure

The French gaming giant Ubisoft, known for popular franchises like Assassin’s Creed, laid off 71 workers at its Halifax studio. The closure occurred mere weeks after employees successfully certified a union. Jon Huffman, a lead programmer affected by this decision, expressed dissatisfaction regarding the lack of communication from the company.

Demands for Accountability

The rally aims to draw attention to the abrupt manner of the studio’s shutdown. Organizers hope to raise awareness among local representatives and the Nova Scotia Labour Board, which is currently assessing the situation. Huffman emphasizes the need for scrutiny on multinational companies that acquire local businesses only to shut them down.

The Chilling Effect on Unionization

The actions of Ubisoft may have broader implications for the Canadian gaming industry. According to the group’s spokesperson, if closures coincide with unionization efforts, it could deter workers from exercising their legal rights. This could create a significant barrier for future organizing efforts, despite protections under the law.

Community Involvement

In addition to the rally, former staff and supporters have initiated a public letter-writing campaign. This campaign encourages community members to join the call for accountability from Ubisoft. Information about participating can be found on their group’s website.

• Event: Rally for Ubisoft Halifax Employees
• Date: Thursday
• Time: 10 a.m.
• Location: Grande Parade, Halifax
• Number of Employees Laid Off: 71
• Closure Date: January 7

The ongoing situation has garnered attention, reflecting the urgent need for public awareness and political action regarding corporate practices in the gaming industry. The rally is a pivotal moment for workers advocating for their rights and the future of the community’s gaming industry.