Marvel VFX crews have made history by filing for a unionization election with the National Labor Relations Board. Being the first VFX crew demanding this right, they plan on being represented by the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE).

Many people have praised this unionization move and hope the future will remain bright for these workers. In a statement by IATSE President Matthew Loeb, he notes how the ongoing strikes have been affecting the entertainment industry for the better since “[e]ntertainment workers everywhere are sticking up for each other’s rights.” Loeb called it “an unprecedented wave of solidarity that’s breaking down old barriers in the industry and proving we’re all in this fight together.”

According to a statement by the union, this is the first time in entertainment history that VFX professionals have demanded “the same rights and protections as their unionized colleagues in the film industry.” In the past, the IATSE has represented most film production departments, from art designers to props to camera operators. However, this marks the first time the VFX department has taken this essential step forward. “For almost half a century,” IATSE VFX organizer states, “workers in the visual effects industry have been denied the same protections and benefits their coworkers and crewmates have relied upon since the beginning of the Hollywood film industry.”

VFX coordinator Bella Huffman seconded this statement by listing various issues that plague the department. From a lack of turnaround times to little to no pay equity, most of the VFX department has felt exploited by the industry. Through this groundbreaking unionization, Huffman hopes that visual effects may become a “sustainable and safe department for everyone who’s suffered far too long and for all newcomers who need to know they won’t be exploited.”