Riot Games Celebrates LGBTQIA+ Community And Parterners With The It Gets Better Project

Riot Games is celebrating the LGBTQIA+ community in a big way this year.

Today, on the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biophobia (“IDAHOTB”), Riot Games has announced a number of efforts to celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community. First of all, they're partnering with the It Gets Better Project. This initiative tells the stories of LGBTQIA+ people to inspire others and connect those struggling with support. Though details are sparse right now, Riot will work with them during June 2020 and beyond, with more details to be shared soon. Executive Director of the It Gets Better Project Brian Wenke commented on the partnership:

“We appreciate how Riot Games looks beyond Pride season to honor the LGBTQ+ community. Since our partnership began in 2017, Rioters have worked with the It Gets Better Project to ensure that LGBTQ+ young people feel seen and supported all year long. Prioritizing Pride 365 speaks volumes about Riot Games’ commitment to allyship.”

This is a huge step for Riot Games, but they're bringing the celebrations to their games too. In each of Riot's games, players can pick up some swag to celebrate in-game. For League of Legends and Teamfight Tactics, players can pick up a variety of poro icons to represent different sexualities. While equipped, players will have special animations when they leave base or go into the carousel. In addition, Legends of Runeterra players can get in on the action too. They'll be able to pick up a new emote and guardian for free.

Riot Games has struggled with questions of diversity acceptance in the past, but this year they're doing more than ever before to make the LGBTQIA+ community feel welcomed and represented. So get out there and celebrate yourself with all these new goodies!

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