Gaming activist group reaches 200k members
VGVN plays "critical role" in protecting gaming art form, says ESA president
The Video Game Voters Network - a US activist group that mobilises the gamer community in political activities - has now reached 200,000 members.
The group, made up of voting-aged gamers, was commended by the Entertainment Software Association for its role in protecting free speech and defending gaming from intrusive regulation.
"VGVN members play a critical role in protecting free speech and defending this innovative and creative art form from intrusive and unnecessary government legislation and regulation," said Michael D Gallagher, president and CEO of the ESA.
"They support their choice of entertainment by contacting elected officials and making their voices heard. Our industry is fortunate to have these dedicated individuals helping to preserve the rights of computer and video game consumers and makers."
Since its formation in 2006, the VGVN has sent hundreds of thousands of communications to elected officials in order to ensure protection under the First Amendment for video games.
In 2009 alone, the network activated 46 times, sending thousands of letters to Capitol Hill and state legislative offices in 35 states in response to proposed government regulation.
And in Utah, the group recently triumphed against an anti-video game bill, which was vetoed by then-Governor Huntsman.