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.
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