“EA believes that to be truly innovative, you must be inclusive. We are proud to be a part of this event,” said a spokesperson.
Whilst I am obliged to go “Yay! Go EA and LGBT!” I think this kind of thing does more harm than good.
Why? Well it’s like putting a massive target on your head, “Gays are here, come and take shot”, it’s begging for Internet trolling and abuse.
It’s quite ridiculous when you think about it, is there any correlation between who you sleep with and gaming?
Much better just to let everyone play together without labels, then no one can be judgemental. That would be inclusive rather than shutting off the LGBT community in their own convention.
Source: GaymerCon
bunimomike
I can tell you one thing. I don’t know a straight guy who enjoys playing The Sims.
zb100
And is it just me, or is that logo a bit… erm… gay?
(Me ducks & covers.)
Adam Garrett
I don’t like it. I cant see this helping anyone. Why do we need our own convention, have we not always been welcome at any other convention? If definitely feels like segregation and also quite embarrassing. I don’t want any special treatment or anything different to any heterosexual gamer., the more you highlight gay people as being “different” the worse you’re going to make it just as you don’t see people highlight black people as being any different, we’re all the same.
hazelam
what about gay gamers who are afraid to be open about their homosexuality, because they fear the reaction from the community, because i have to say, TSA is somewhat of the exception that proves the rule when it comes to gamer communities.
it’s not a problem here, but in many games communities online, homophobia and sexism, and to a lesser extent racism, is rampant.
put yourself in that gamer’s position, wouldn’t knowing there are gamers, and some in the industry who will accept you, be helpful?
but in the end, what we say here won’t change anything, the event got its funding and it’s going ahead.
i guess it just remains to be seen whether it’ll end up being a good thing or not.
Adam Garrett
“what about gay gamers who are afraid to be open about their homosexuality, because they fear the reaction from the community”
I still feel that they would be better off in a convention where everyone is welcome and where sexuality make no difference rather than going to a separate convention where they are categorised as gay gamers.
3shirts
This comes back to my earlier point though. In an ideal world, yes, everyone could mix and be happy but in THIS world there are some who, justifiably, fear being themselves in case of reprisals. Therefore this convention exists for the same reason as gay bars or clubs.
I don’t know that it’s the right way to go though. I think campaigning within existing conventions would be better
Dan Lee
Gotta say, the comments on this article just goes to show what a great community TSA has.
Kudos.
3shirts
Here here.
It’s like having a conversation with actual GROWN UPS! Amazing
OneShotWook
Good read but i must say i’m amazed that people think homphobia is a big issue in videogaming,or rather any different in videogaming to any other form of media.It seems to be referring mostly to the slack jawed tweenies mouthing off over our headsets right up until mute is pressed,something which i consider almost trivial and certainly not hate fueled and loathsome.
We are in danger of dumbing down what is a very real issue in the world today with fluff articles and feigned responses.
Good luck to Ea and their light hearted,well meant session,i take it Greg and Ray won’t get any tickets?