Union workers rally against Xbox layoffs, fight for protections at Richardson protest

July 16, 2026 - 12:20

Dozens of workers gathered outside the Id Software office building in Richardson on Tuesday to protest the latest wave of Xbox layoffs. The demonstration came after Microsoft announced it would cut 1,600 roles last week, with plans to eliminate a total of 3,200 employees over the next year. Protesters carried signs and chanted for stronger job security measures, arguing that the company's repeated rounds of cuts have left workers feeling disposable.

The rally was organized by the Communications Workers of America, which represents some of the affected employees. Union leaders said the layoffs undermine years of promises from Microsoft about stable employment and fair treatment. One speaker at the event noted that many of the workers losing their jobs had been hired just months earlier, raising questions about the company's long-term planning.

Xbox has not publicly commented on the protest. However, internal memos obtained by labor groups suggest the cuts are part of a broader cost-saving strategy. Workers at the rally called for a binding contract that would require advance notice of layoffs and severance guarantees. They also demanded a seat at the table when executives make decisions about staffing.

The protest in Richardson is part of a growing wave of labor activism in the video game industry. Similar rallies have taken place in Seattle and California in recent weeks. For now, the workers say they will continue to organize and push for protections, even as the next round of cuts looms.