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WIRED
6 days ago
- Business
- WIRED
'Grand Theft Auto' Publisher Swaps DEI for 'Diversity of Thought' in Annual Report
May 28, 2025 11:51 AM Take-Two's latest 10-K report has removed any mention of supporting social justice and LGBT+ rights, as more industries fall in line with President Donald Trump's anti-DEI agenda. Take-Two Interactive did not mention DEI in its latest annual report. Photograph: Jakub Porzycki/AP Images Take-Two Interactive, the publisher behind Grand Theft Auto VI , is forgoing any mention of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts and promoting 'diversity of thought" in its latest annual report. The change, first spotted by Game File, is part of the company's annual 10-K report, which offers insight into the company's business, financials, and risk factors. In 2024, the report included a robust section about DEI, expressing support for groups working to 'eradicate social injustice,' LGBTQ+ rights, and minority game design students, and 'celebrating cultural differences' through employee groups. In the 2025 report, Take-Two only mentions diversity in one area: 'We firmly believe that diversity of thought drives the innovation that is integral to our success.' The report adds that the company aims 'to provide an inclusive workplace in which everyone feels respected, heard, and safe,' but does not include commitments to provide scholarships to minority game design students, which were made in 2024. 'By empowering our colleagues to embrace an entrepreneurial mindset and to take calculated risks, we believe that we have created an environment where our people can thrive,' the report reads. The move is part of a growing trend of companies rolling back their DEI initiatives amid a crackdown on anything perceived as DEI by the Trump administration. DEI efforts in the video game industry have grown since the early days of gaming, but it wasn't until 2020 that major companies began to throw support behind minority developers in acknowledgement of greater systemic issues. After George Floyd was murdered by police, companies began to vocally support movements like Black Lives Matter and pledged to help marginalized developers. As President Donald Trump has been cracking down on DEI in both the public and private sector, however, those efforts may now be in danger. Reached by WIRED, a spokesperson for Take-Two declined to comment. The company's website still includes a statement that says it believes 'more diverse teams are more valuable and effective. Diversity is key to our success.' DEI backlash, which has most recently spread across companies in fields like tech and retail, has a firm foothold in gaming communities. Last year, an online harassment movement styling itself as 'Gamergate 2.0' attacked consultancy companies hired to provide guidance and advice on cultural sensitivities, and created lists that deemed even a whiff of anything non-white, cis-male, and heterosexual as DEI. In modding communities, mods for games like The Sims 4 are being created to remove LGBT and Black non-player characters from the game. The language in Take-Two's report echoes that of companies like Meta, which said it would seek "cognitive diversity' in its own 10-K earlier this year, as it ended its own DEI programs. The Entertainment Software Association, which organized the now defunct E3 and acts as an advocate for the video game industry among regulators and lawmakers, declined to comment about the impact of DEI rollbacks in video games. Instead, a spokesperson directed WIRED to the ESA's "Inclusion & Belonging' page on its website, which champions representation and that 'the video game community is vast and diverse.' Diversity of thought may not be a problematic concept in theory, but right-wing personalities have adopted it as a talking point that can provide cover racist, sexist, or transphobic views. Daniel Oppong, founder of The Courage Collective—a consultant that advises companies on DEI—says it is often used as a cop-out to sidestep a company's lack of representation. 'When organizational cultures are largely homogenous, they'll often cite 'diversity of thought' as a means to indicate some element of distinctiveness,' he says. That still doesn't let any company off the hook. 'In that spirit, if 'diversity of thought' is deemed necessary (and acceptable),' he says, 'then diversity of identities (aka: diverse teams) should be an imperative as well.' Oppong says there's a great misconception around what people consider DEI today. 'What was meant to be a robust, interdisciplinary practice designed to create cultures where people thrive, is often misrepresented as 'wokeism' and reduced to polarizing buzzwords that do not accurately portray the essence and impact of effective DEI,' he says. These programs can offer equal access to things like better working conditions for people with disabilities, improved parental leave, and equal access to career opportunities. 'One of the biggest misnomers about DEI is the notion that it only benefits people from historically marginalized groups,' Oppong says. 'The truth is, when implemented effectively, DEI benefits everyone.' For some companies, like Target, DEI rollbacks have meant lost profits and cultural backlash. Next year, Take-Two will publish Rockstar's highly anticipated Grand Theft Auto VI, which co-stars a Latina woman—the very kind of character the anti-woke crowd calls DEI. 'People want to support and work for brands that align with their values,' Oppong says. 'Given the shifting demographics of the US, it's imperative that organizations consider the unique needs and values of different identity groups – particularly if they want to remain relevant and resonant with employers and consumers alike.'
New York Post
27-05-2025
- New York Post
US issues travel warning for Italy fearing ‘terrorism' — here's what American tourists should know
Italy has long been a summer hotspot for globetrotters everywhere — but an updated travel advisory has just been issued for the beloved European vacation destination. On May 23, the US State Department issued a Level 2 travel warning for Italy, urging travelers to 'exercise increased caution' due to terrorism. The U.S. State Department issued a Level 2 travel warning for Italy. Jakub Porzycki/NurPhoto/Shutterstock Advertisement 'There is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Italy,' the advisory summary reads. Italy previously had the basic Level 1 advisory that most other European countries share, simply telling travelers to 'exercise normal precautions' when visiting. However, due to the increased threat of terrorist-related violence, the State Department has bumped Italy up to Level 2. Advertisement There are four levels for international travel advisories: Level 1 ('exercise normal precautions'), Level 2 ('exercise increased caution'), Level 3 ('reconsider travel') and Level 4 ('do not travel'). The advisory warns that terrorists 'may attack with little or no warning' and encourages Americans to be wary of common targets, including tourist spots, transportation centers, shopping malls and markets, local government buildings, hotels, clubs, restaurants, religious sites, parks, sports and cultural events, schools, airports and public areas. For those who decide to travel to Italy, the State Department recommends staying alert in tourist spots, checking local media for any breaking news and enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive messages and alerts from the U.S. Embassy. The State Department is urging travelers to 'exercise increased caution' due to terrorism. REUTERS/Igor Petyx Advertisement It's also been recommended to be prepared to alter plans while abroad and set up a contingency plan for any potential emergency situations. France, Germany, Spain and the United Kingdom also currently have Level 2 advisories from the State Department.
The Star
23-05-2025
- Automotive
- The Star
Motor racing-Bearman given 10-place Monaco grid penalty for red flag breach
FILE PHOTO: Formula One F1 - Emilia Romagna Grand Prix - Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari, Imola, Italy - May 15, 2025 Haas' Oliver Bearman ahead of the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix REUTERS/Jakub Porzycki/File Photo MONACO (Reuters) -Haas Formula One rookie Oliver Bearman was handed a 10-place grid drop for ignoring red flags during Friday's Monaco Grand prix practice. The Briton also collected two penalty points on his licence for the breach. Stewards found that the 20-year-old overtook Williams' Carlos Sainz after the session was stopped and red flag warnings issued. "It is clear from the video footage that there was a light panel directly in front of the driver which showed the red flag; and the dashboard also indicated the red flag well before the overtake took place," they said. "The driver claimed that he saw the red flags but decided not to slow down abruptly because he felt that slowing down abruptly would have been more dangerous and that what he did was a safer way of handling the situation." The stewards disagreed with Bearman's stance and said drivers could not know, on a tight and narrrow track like Monaco, what might be ahead. (Reporting by Alan Baldwin, editing by Ed Osmond)
Straits Times
23-05-2025
- Automotive
- Straits Times
Bearman given 10-place Monaco grid penalty for red flag breach
FILE PHOTO: Formula One F1 - Emilia Romagna Grand Prix - Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari, Imola, Italy - May 15, 2025 Haas' Oliver Bearman ahead of the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix REUTERS/Jakub Porzycki/File Photo MONACO - Haas Formula One rookie Oliver Bearman was handed a 10-place grid drop for ignoring red flags during Friday's Monaco Grand prix practice. The Briton also collected two penalty points on his licence for the breach. Stewards found that the 20-year-old overtook Williams' Carlos Sainz after the session was stopped and red flag warnings issued. "It is clear from the video footage that there was a light panel directly in front of the driver which showed the red flag; and the dashboard also indicated the red flag well before the overtake took place," they said. "The driver claimed that he saw the red flags but decided not to slow down abruptly because he felt that slowing down abruptly would have been more dangerous and that what he did was a safer way of handling the situation." The stewards disagreed with Bearman's stance and said drivers could not know, on a tight and narrrow track like Monaco, what might be ahead. REUTERS Join ST's Telegram channel and get the latest breaking news delivered to you.
Wales Online
23-05-2025
- Business
- Wales Online
Easyjet and Ryanair face huge fines over hand luggage fees 'affecting millions'
Easyjet and Ryanair face huge fines over hand luggage fees 'affecting millions' Airlines have hit back against accusations of "exploiting" customers and "ignoring" EU law over cabin bag policies Easyjet and Ryanair face scrutiny for baggage policies (Image: Getty Images ) Easyjet and Ryanair are among seven airlines facing new fines over hand baggage charges. The two companies have however hit back against accusations of 'exploiting' customers and 'ignoring' EU law over cabin bag policies. The European Consumer Organisation (BEUC) and its 16 member organisations from 12 countries have filed an official complaint to the European Commission, which could land the seven airlines involved hefty charges. BEUC are calling for an 'EU-wide investigation' into the practices of charging extra fees for hand luggage. It follows a €179million fine thrown at five airlines by the Spanish Organisation of Consumer and Users (OCU) last year for 'abusive' hand baggage practices. This time, as well as Easyjet and Ryanair, Norwegian Airlines, French company Transavia, Hungarian airline Wizzair, and Spanish firms Volotea and Vueling are in hot water over their policies. Agustín Reyna, Director General of BEUC, commented: 'Haven't we all experienced the fear of our hand baggage not fitting in the airline's sizers and being charged extra fees? Today we are taking action against seven airlines who are exploiting consumers and are ignoring the EU top court who ruled that charging reasonably sized hand baggage is illegal. 'This was confirmed by recent fines in Spain which made clear that passengers can bring their reasonably sized hand baggage onboard at no additional cost. In addition to our European action, the ongoing revision of the Air Passenger Rights regulation is the perfect opportunity for the EU to clarify what services should be included in the basic ticket price. Article continues below 'Our data shows that consumers expect to see a small item and a piece of hand luggage when buying basic tickets. Policymakers should also define hand luggage's 'reasonable size and weight' to avoid surprises at the airport and ultimately reduce the number of disputes costing consumers and airlines time and money.' What does BEUC accuse the airlines of doing wrong? Ryanair and EasyJet have been accused of varying the fees they charge for hand luggage depending on the route and date (Image: Jakub Porzycki/NurPhoto via Getty Images ) BEUC have provided examples of what they believe are unfair practices. For EasyJet, they note how the airline 'imposes fees varying on the route selected, flight and time of booking'. These fees begin at £5.99 and a fee applied directly at the airport, called an 'airport bag fee' is £48. BEUC also say that Ryanair fees for baggage vary depending on the route and travel dates. These can range from £6 to £36 when booking, or £20 to £60 when booking at the airport. Millions of passengers who flew with the airlines in 2024 could be affected, BEUC claims. What have the airlines said? EasyJet have hit back against the filing (Image: Getty Images ) A Ryanair spokesperson says the airline 'welcomes the filing of this complaint', claiming it will 'confirm' its bags policy 'fully complies with EU law'. The spokesperson added: 'Ryanair allows each passenger to carry a generous (40 x 25 x 20 cm) personal bag on board free as part of its basic air fare, with the option to add extra bags for an optional fee should they so wish. This policy promotes both low fares and consumer choice. 'If airlines were forced to include additional carry-on bags as part of the basic fare, it would reduce choice and drive-up air fares for all passengers, which would harm consumers.' Ryanair also criticised BEUC over its dealing with online travel agencies (OTAs), adding: 'If BEUC is genuinely concerned about consumers being 'exploited', then why does it continue to ignore the rampant consumer harm being caused by overcharging OTAs, who continue to induce unsuspecting consumers into paying unjustified hidden mark-ups for flights and ancillary products that cost much less when booked directly on airlines' websites? 'Outlawing these harmful OTA overcharges and enforcing transparency in OTA pricing would be a much better use of BEUC and its members' resources.' A Norwegian Air spokesperson said: 'Norwegian is committed to offering safe and affordable travel, and our baggage policy reflects this. We believe we are in compliance with EU regulations and the policy is transparent and essential for managing weight and limited space on board, ensuring passenger safety, and also maintaining punctuality. 'Our customers have shown that they appreciate not having to pay for extra baggage when they don't need it. Customers travelling with Norwegian can bring a bag from the duty-free shop in addition to their hand luggage on board the aircraft.' Wizz Air are among those facing fines Airlines 4 Europe, a collective group representing a number of European airlines including EasyJet, Norwegian, Ryanair and Volotea, released a collective response to the filing. A spokesperson said: 'All airlines let travellers bring one personal item as part of their fare, in line with the Vueling Ruling of the Court of Justice of the EU (CJEU). 'A 2024 Eurobarometer survey shows that 90% of passengers are well informed of the size and weight limits of the luggage included in their ticket. The action taken today by consumer organisations would decrease consumer choice and oblige all passengers to pay for additional services that they may not all need. 'The CJEU expressly acknowledges the value of unbundling services and how this allows passengers to choose the exact services that best suits their needs. The decision of the Spanish Consumer Protection Agency on cabin bags is currently under appeal and the European Commission is looking into whether it complies with EU law. 'Making cabin bags mandatory would force up to 50 million passengers in Spain alone to pay for something they do not want.' Furthermore, the Spanish Airline Association (ALA), which represents Vueling among others, claims charging for baggage in the cabin is "perfectly legal". A spokesperson added: "This practice allows passengers to pay only for the services they need, giving consumers the ability to choose based on their travel needs. "In fact, this was the option chosen by just over 50 million passengers in 2024, who traveled without a trolley. If this practice were banned, these 50 million passengers would have to pay for a service they don't require , increasing their travel costs. Article continues below "It should be noted that airlines are currently already working with European authorities on standardising the dimensions of luggage. It should be noted that the Ministry of Consumer Affairs' ruling, which fines some airlines €179 million for charging for cabin baggage and seeks to impose an end to this practice, is being appealed by the affected airlines. "Therefore, there is no final decision on the matter until the courts issue a ruling." WizzAir declined to comment.
