In the quest for gender equality and diversity, understanding allyship and unconscious bias is paramount. Emily Leeb, Co-Founder of Saroca, guides participants through an enlightening session dedicated to elevating female leadership in the gaming industry.
Unconscious Bias: Challenging Perceptions
Emily Leeb initiates the session with an eye-opening exercise on unconscious bias. Participants delve into scenarios without explicit descriptors of gender, race, or other identifying traits. Through this exercise, individuals confront their innate biases, recognizing how preconceptions shape perceptions. By uncovering these biases, participants gain valuable insights into their worldview, laying the foundation for introspection and growth.
Understanding Allyship: Advocating for Inclusivity
With an acknowledgment of inherent biases, the discussion shifts towards allyship. Participants explore strategies to support women and minority groups within the gaming industry. One key topic is the subtle yet pervasive nature of sexist comments disguised as expressions of concern. By questioning societal norms and challenging biased behaviors, individuals can foster a more inclusive environment. Additionally, the conversation addresses the phenomenon of internalized misogyny among women, emphasizing the importance of solidarity and collaboration.
Lessons Learned: Empowering Action
To effect real change, participants recognize the imperative of using their voices to confront bias. Whether through difficult conversations or mentorship initiatives, individuals play a pivotal role in fostering diversity and inclusion. By amplifying marginalized voices and providing mentorship opportunities, women can drive systemic change within the gaming industry, paving the way for greater gender diversity in executive roles.
The LeadHERship program offers a transformative journey towards inclusive leadership in gaming. By confronting unconscious bias and embracing allyship, participants emerge as advocates for change, equipped with the tools to challenge systemic inequalities. Through collective action and empowerment, the gaming industry can realize its full potential as a diverse and inclusive ecosystem.