Geekquality.com

This past weekend, the inaugural GaymerX convention took place in San Francisco’s Japantown. Developed by Matt Conn, the event found its footing through Kickstarter support, becoming the first convention catering to and celebrating LGBTQ gamers. The weekend included thoughtful panels, table top and card gaming rooms, a separate room of video games on a variety of platforms, exhibit areas with art and merch, and at least one marriage proposal that we know of. The con also gave attendees the opportunity to show off their cosplay and to meet some industry creators noted for their dedication to character diversity and representation in gaming.

Like any effort in its beginning stages, GaymerX had some logistical elements of chaos: lobby traffic was sometimes a challenge, the artist tables were a bit scattered about, and the air conditioning at the Hotel Kabuki was very temperamental. But those were minor factors that more than likely presented the organizers with a learning opportunity for how to improve things for 2014. (It’s been confirmed, by the way, that the convention will be happening again next year!) The excitement was palpable. It was clear that this event was a much needed response to the fact that bigger geek conventions often don’t feel like an inclusive or particularly safe space. Although more and more organizers are implementing anti-harassment and discrimination policies, there is still a disconnect within the gaming fan culture. Some have argued that having a separate convention for gaymers is just a form of self-segregation, but that’s quite untrue. Instead, this convention provides an enjoyable experience, an opportunity for many gamers to find emotional support to help them become more vocal about their needs and wishes within the gaming space, and it also serves up proof that there is, in fact, a huge and growing contingent of gamers who identify as LGBTQ. A message that was echoed by many panelists is that the most simple, straight forward form of activism is to simply make your presence known.

The panels I attended were informative for anyone who works in the industry and/or considers themselves an ally, and from the reaction and conversations that happened during the various talks, it was clear that most people in attendance found the experience cathartic and empowering. For those of you who were unable to make it due to geographic reasons, financial concerns, or the fact that you simply didn’t know about the event, we’ve got for you some panel recaps, links to artists and Kickstarter projects you might want to know about, and a few cosplay photos. Continue reading →