As Marie-Claire Isaaman, CEO of Women in Games, stated recently, it appears the games industry is “going backwards”. Reports of multiple assaults and drink spiking at this year’s GDC event are just one example of the dangers women face when attending such events.
Isaaman cited a recent story where two women were lured to a hotel room for a pitch and then assaulted. This is just one instance of the many instances of sexism and aggression that women experience in the gaming industry. This includes belittling and undermining, being hit on relentlessly, and even being threatened with rape.
Unfortunately, despite the efforts of organisations like Women in Games, it appears that the situation is getting worse rather than better. This is why it is so important to continue to raise awareness of the issues women face in the gaming industry and to encourage everyone to report instances of harassment and assault.
GDC released a statement in response to the reports, condemning such behaviour and encouraging victims to report it to the police. This is a positive step in the right direction, and hopefully it will lead to a safer environment for women in the gaming industry.
It is clear that the games industry needs to take further action to ensure that all women feel safe and respected in the gaming community. Until then, it is essential that we continue to support organisations like Women in Games, who are doing important work to ensure that all gamers are treated equally.