LGBTQ+ in Gaming takes a step forward with Chad Rogers, Penn Entertainment’s Director of Slots, mentioning his personal story at a recent webinar. He shared his experience of being openly gay, highlighting the importance of authenticity. Rogers commented, “There’s something to be said about being authentically yourself around people. We’re normal people. We just want to be ourselves and be happy.” Learn more about the importance of diversity in online casinos and how it affects customer experience.
The LGBTQ+ in Gaming group was born out of conversations during last year’s Global Gaming Expo. Brooke Thomas, Vice President of People, Equity & Inclusion at Seminole Hard Rock Support Services, spearheaded this initiative. This group aims to create a space where LGBTQ professionals and their allies can connect and be themselves.
Fostering Inclusion in Online Casinos
At the group’s inaugural webinar, participants were acquainted with various aspects of the LGBTQ community. Thomas emphasized that the organization strives to reassure LGBTQ members that they are not alone, noting, “So many of us are in this community and industry and we don’t know each other.” This approach aligns with how various gambling platforms foster community through inclusion.
The group is not exclusive. Everi’s Customer Success Manager, Matthew Heenan, stressed that everyone should be part of these conversations. “We want to remember when we create space for these conversations, everyone should be invited in,” Heenan said. “That means no gatekeepers around who gets to care about inclusion, and we welcome all allies at all levels.”
Penn Entertainment’s Director of Talent, Jack Lyons, encouraged attendees to act as leaders in promoting inclusion. Lyons believes in showcasing that the gaming industry is a safe environment. “It’s all about encouraging that kind of environment where everyone feels secure,” he stated. The push for inclusivity reflects broader shifts in the gambling industry at large, as discussed on Legal Sports Report.
LGBTQ+ in Gaming: A Community Within Online Gambling
The panelists received strong support from their employers. Derek Harasiuk, Caesars Entertainment Director of Revenue Hospitality, acknowledged that his company champions inclusive practices, both at work and in social settings. For instance, Caesars Las Vegas is hosting a combined Pride Month and Juneteenth mixer, on June 19.
“My goal is to create spaces, both physical and virtual, where team members can come together, celebrate Pride, and hear the powerful stories of leaders from across Caesars,” Harasiuk remarked. “Because when we share our stories, we build understanding.” Embracing these values could lead to improved experiences for patrons of online gambling.
