Microsoft has revealed that a vital change in their code of conduct will attempt to crack down on homophobia and give LGBT players of Xbox Live a voice. Whilst homophobia is rife in the Xbox Live community and very difficult for the global computer giant to crack down on, the changes in Microsoft’s regulations, which now allow individuals to state their sexual orientation, is a vital bid to educate many gamers and give a voice to a minority group.
Many users of Xbox Live are largely accustomed to the insults which are often thrown around in chat as slang and are not often directed at individuals. However, with members of the LGBT community still being at the receiving end of, albeit indirect abuse, Microsoft have made a vital step forward in reducing homophobia on their network.
Writing on their official blog, general manager of Xbox Live Marc Whitten said “Under our previous policy, some of these expressions of self-identification were not allowed in Gamertags or profiles to prevent the use of these terms as insults or slurs. However we have since heard feedback from our customers that while the spirit of this approach was genuine, it inadvertently excluded a part of our Xbox LIVE community. This update also comes hand-in-hand with increased stringency and enforcement to prevent the misuse of these terms. Other terms regarding relationship orientation are not allowed. In addition you may not use these terms or any other terms regarding relationship orientation to insult, harass, or any other pejorative use against other users. I truly believe that our diversity is what makes us strong: diversity in gaming and entertainment options, and diversity in the people that make up this amazing community. I look forward to seeing you on LIVE soon.”
