Esports Org Dropped Player After Allegation Of Racism

In the fast-paced and highly competitive world of esports, teams and organizations are constantly making headlines. However, the esports community recently witnessed a different kind of headline when GamerLegion, a German esports organization, decided to part ways with one of its newly signed players, Chloe ‘KittyTM’ Geaney, just two days after announcing her as a part of their women’s CS: GO roster, GL Prism. The reason behind this abrupt decision was a series of allegations of racism against the player. This incident sheds light on the growing importance of diversity and inclusion within the esports industry.

GamerLegion’s Rise and Recent Controversy

GamerLegion had been making waves in the esports scene, particularly with their impressive second-place finish at the BLAST Paris Major. However, their recent venture into the world of women’s CS: GO took an unexpected turn. On September 23, 2023, the organization proudly unveiled its women’s CS: GO roster, GL Prism, to the world. The excitement around this announcement quickly turned into controversy as the organization found itself in hot water, forced to make a challenging decision just two days later.

The Allegations and Social Media Outcry

The decision to drop Chloe ‘KittyTM’ Geaney was prompted by a flurry of allegations against her. Screenshots of alleged messages and conversations containing racial slurs attributed to KittyTM began circulating on social media shortly after the team’s initial announcement. These screenshots, when made public, understandably ignited a wave of outrage within the esports community.

Individuals on social media platforms expressed their disappointment and concern over KittyTM’s alleged actions, questioning the organization’s judgment in signing her in the first place. One Twitter user, Neo, who claimed to have witnessed and documented the alleged racist behaviour, stated, “It’s disappointing to see @KittyTM_ succeed over others. I have seen multiple screenshots on Twitter already that show her as a racist, which doesn’t reflect well on any organization that would sign her.”

GamerLegion’s Response and Commitment to Diversity

In response to the allegations and the mounting public outcry, GamerLegion issued a statement addressing the situation. The organization emphasized its unwavering commitment to diversity and inclusion within the esports industry. Their statement unequivocally denounced discriminatory comments and behaviour, recognizing the harm they inflict on individuals and the tarnishing of the competitive spirit that esports represents.

The statement went on to explain that parting ways with KittyTM was not only necessary but also immediate. GamerLegion expressed deep regret for any harm caused by the comments attributed to KittyTM and reiterated their dedication to learning from this experience. They affirmed their commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion in esports, signalling a determination to rectify the situation.

KittyTM’s Silence and Impact on GL Prism

Amidst the controversy, KittyTM remained silent on the allegations and her exit from the team. Her decision not to comment on the matter through her social media channels added further mystery to the situation. While some speculated about her reasons for not addressing the allegations, others focused on the impact this incident would have on the remaining members of GL Prism.

With KittyTM no longer part of the roster, GL Prism now finds itself with only four players. This sudden loss leaves the team in a challenging position as they must scramble to find a stand-in for their upcoming match against the NAVI Javelins on September 27. The incident’s timing, occurring during the ESL Impact season, has added a layer of complexity to the team’s predicament.

The Wider Implications for Esports

GamerLegion’s swift decision to part ways with KittyTM highlights the evolving landscape of esports. It underscores the increasing importance of holding players and organizations accountable for their actions, both in and outside the gaming arena. Esports is no longer just about competitive gaming; it’s about setting an example and fostering a community that values inclusivity and respect.

This incident serves as a reminder that esports organizations are not immune to the broader societal issues surrounding diversity and discrimination. As esports continues to grow and gain mainstream attention, the industry faces a responsibility to address these issues head-on. Organizations must make informed decisions about player acquisitions, ensuring that their roster choices align with their stated values.

The GamerLegion incident involving Chloe ‘KittyTM’ Geaney serves as a prominent example of how the esports industry is adapting to the challenges of inclusivity and diversity. The organization’s decisive response to allegations of racism demonstrates a commitment to fostering a more inclusive gaming community. However, it also highlights the potential consequences for players who engage in discriminatory behaviour.

As esports continues to evolve and mature, the actions of organizations like GamerLegion send a clear message that discrimination has no place in the world of competitive gaming. This incident will likely prompt ongoing discussions within the esports community about the importance of upholding values of diversity and inclusion, ultimately shaping the industry’s future.