By now, you’re very likely aware of what has been going on with Activision-Blizzard. Lots of accounts and reports of discrimination, abuse and harassment have been occurring for months now. Last week, it was reported that Activision-Blizzard CEO Bobby Kotick had been involved with or had been aware of various cases of harassment and discrimination within the company.
Since then, both Microsoft and Sony have notified their respective employers about the matter, and their emails both leaked to the public. Earlier today, the same has happened to Nintendo. Internal emails from Nintendo of America’s Doug Bowser have been leaked to FanByte via “a verified source”.
In a November 19th email, Doug Bowser says that “along with all of you, I’ve been following the latest developments with Activision Blizzard and the ongoing reports of sexual harassment and toxicity at the company. I find these accounts distressing and disturbing, They run counter to my values as well as Nintendo’s beliefs, values and policies”.
Doug Bowser continues by explaining that “Nintendo is committed to having an open and inclusive workplace where all are welcome”, and that “the company holds itself to this standard and expects the same from the industry and their partners”. He states that Nintendo representatives have been “in contact with Activision, have taken action and are assessing others”.
What may be the most interesting bit in the email concerns the ESA. Nintendo and Activision-Blizzard are both members. According to Doug Bowser, Nintendo has been working with the ESA as of at least last week to “strengthen stances on harassment and abuse in the workplace” and he feels that “the ESA must hold its members to the highest standard”. Lastly, Doug Bowser says that “every company in the industry must create an environment where everyone is respected and treated as equals, and where all understand the consequences of not doing so”.