Today, it’s Activision Blizzard and Riot Games who are making the headlines over massive payouts made to settle class action lawsuits brought by female employees over gender discrimination cases.
Two industry giants taking responsibility
According to sources cited by Axios, more than 1,500 current and former female Riot Games employees have received payouts worth between $2,500 and $5,000 as part of a gender discrimination settlement. The settlement was announced in late 2021 and ended a class action lawsuit filed by employees in 2018.
As far as Activision is concerned, the company has paid five- to six-figure sums to hundreds of employees who have decided to participate in a class action lawsuit alleging sexual harassment, pregnancy discrimination, retaliation and/or constructive discharge. . The $18 million fund intended to settle the case has been distributed to the plaintiffs, with the exception of the remaining monies which will be donated to the non-profit organization Reboot Representation.
These payments come after years of struggle to recognize the discrimination and sexism present in the video game industry. Numerous employees reported toxic behavior and a sexist work culture at Riot Games, which ultimately led to the 2018 class action. Similar allegations were also made against Activision.
These regulations are a positive sign that companies are beginning to take responsibility for ensuring a safe and non-discriminatory work environment for all employees, regardless of gender. However, much more needs to be done to eliminate sexism and discrimination in the video game industry and ensure a fair working environment for all.
