Muslim Ban: GDC Organizers ‘Horrified’ By Trump’s Travel Ban; Issues Statement, Refunds Affected Attendees
Arianne GiftOrganizers of the annual Game Developers Conference in San Francisco have spoken out against the travel ban imposed by President Trump. GDC now plans to reimburse the attendees affected by the controversial executive order.
The POTUS has ordered a 90-day ban to anyone attempting to enter the United States from seven Muslim-majority countries. The countries affected by Trump's executive order are Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen.
The Muslim ban caused an outcry across the globe, including the Entertainment Software Association (ESA). The group issued a statement that urges the White House to "exercise caution with regard to vital immigration and foreign worker programs."
The official GDC Twitter account responded to the Trump Administration's order, along with the promise to refund anyone who is now unable to attend the highly anticipated conference. The 2017 Game Developers Conference will take place in February 27 to March 3.
GDC is a global community - we're horrified by the #MuslimBan. Of course we'll refund affected attendees, and keep fighting for inclusivity.
— Official_GDC (@Official_GDC) January 29, 2017
The Game Developers Conference team's decision has since been praised by fans, as well as some of the most prolific game developers. On Twitter, former PlayStation executive, indie developer and indie champion Shahid Ahmad said of the current situation: "Given the current confusion, until the US position is clear, I won't be going to #GDC2017." Meanwhile, Ramil Ismael, co-founder of Vlambeer has promised that his company's revenue will be donated to ACLU for their opposition to the Muslim ban.
According to Polygon, the International Game Developers Association noted that only two its 8,000 members are affected by President Trump's ban. However, executive director Kate Edwards said that the executive order nonetheless promotes xenophobia in the US government. This will affect the country's ability to see talent and skill and remain globally competitive.
The full text of ESA's statement on President Trump's Muslim ban is available at The ESA. Meanwhile, GDC is yet to give updates regarding said reimbursement on affected attendees.
most read
related stories
more stories from News
Check out the latest from Glance! They're piloting their Android Lockscreen Platform in the US. Don't miss it!
ernest hamiltonExciting news! X plans to launch a Smart TV app for an immersive entertainment experience. Stay tuned!
ernest hamiltonT-Mobile unveils new 5G internet plans, promising enhanced home and travel connectivity for customers seeking high-speed internet on the go.
ernest hamiltonHuawei sets sights on global expansion with HarmonyOS, aiming to rival Android and iOS in the competitive mobile operating system market.
ernest hamiltonStay ahead with the latest updates! Apple rolls out third betas for iOS 17.5 and iPadOS 17.5, bringing exciting app ecosystem changes and new features.
ernest hamiltonBillie Eilish fans, get ready! The iconic singer will be performing live at the Fortnite Festival this week. Don't miss out!
ernest hamiltonMoondrop, known for audiophile gear, teases its inaugural smartphone, the MIAD 01, promising a unique blend of audio excellence and mobile technology.
ernest hamiltonAndroid 15 aims to streamline notification channels by hiding unused ones, enhancing user experience and decluttering notification settings.
ernest hamilton