Zero Tolerance for Sexual Harassments at GAMA Events
Thursday, August 19, 2021
Posted by: John Stacy
Earlier today a member of our industry shared that they had been physically, sexually, and psychologically assaulted by a former employer. I cannot get into the specifics of our conversation as it is their story to tell, GAMA supports them, and I told them so last week when they contacted us about their very difficult and brave decision to talk about what occurred. Let there be no doubt we have zero tolerance for behavior like this at our events and programs. We will revoke an attendee’s badge and escort them off the premises when situations like this are reported to us. In addition, over the past year GAMA has partnered with RAINN and other victim’s rights groups to offer education, create resources, and promoted their national toll-free victim’s hotline which connects people with resources to support them. We have had training for staff on how to handle reports from attendees at our shows in a confidential and supportive manner. We are also working on our industry code of conduct which all members will have to abide by to be part of our association. This will be part of the member renewal and application process for 2022. I want to close by reminding members that as a nonprofit trade association our role in these types of matters is limited by the law. We can uphold a code of conduct at our events and programs, but we are not a court that adjudicates these types of issues to determine the truth. We will advocate for members to behave ethically and responsibly towards each other and take actions as necessary within the framework of the law. John Stacy Executive Director Game Manufacturers Association |
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