G2E panel: Gaming execs discuss the value of DEI
Panelists said innovation is necessary to offer welcoming workspaces and build revenue.
Key Points
- Innovation can be a key component for a successful DEI business strategy
- The goal is to make room for all voices
A group of gaming industry executives recently weighed in on the topic of diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) in the gaming industry, at this week’s G2E in Las Vegas.
Gaming America was in attendance as Seminole Hard Rock VP of DEI Brooke Thomas, FanDuel VP of DEI Keita Young and DRA CEO Alex Dixon led the discussion, addressing the potential challenges and benefits of creating business strategies that make space for DEI.
“We’re not just counting heads. We’re making heads count,” Thomas said.
Young stressed the importance of innovation when it comes to forming DEI strategies in the workplace.
She commented, “Before I joined FanDuel, I was in the banking industry and doing DEI. And I can tell you, when I walked into the door of FanDuel, it was just a very different in terms of the energy of the culture.
“One of the things I hear is about innovation, and the importanc of it as a key driver for us as a company to go to the next level. My company believes in innovation. And how we get there is diversity of thought, diversity of people, diversity of experiences and you get that through investing in diversity, equity and inclusion.”
Young went on to add that the purpose of DEI initiatives is to create an environment where all people can have a seat at the table.
She said, “It’s not about a particular group, women or black. It’s about everyone. So DEI is a strategy for everyone to feel accepted, for openness for everyone.
“Everyone has a strategic alternative or strategic plan and it comes through diversity. I think that’s why gaming industry is accepting of diversity and initiatives and realizes to get us to the next level, it’s imperative.”
Dixon pointed out that six in 10 Americans say they support diversity, equity and inclusion.
He added that part of fostering diverse environment within the industry includes inviting different types of people into spaces and conversations to build relationships.
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