The recent decision by the United States Supreme Court to overturn Roe v. Wade, a decision that ended federal protections for abortion, led to a wave of corporate statements across the video game industry. Many studios and publishers provided statements of general support for a woman’s right to choose followingRoe v. Wade being overturned, while others provided more explicit plans for expanding healthcare coverage.Take-Two, which initially was quiet on the subject, has now followed through with its own commitment to expanding employee benefits.In a message shared onTake-Two’s official LinkedIn profile, the company stated that it would “like to affirm our unwavering support for all our colleagues in the U.S. and around the world” with regard to the Roe v. Wade ruling. Take-Two says that it acknowledges the Supreme Court’s decision and regards it as a “significant event,” though the meaning behind that isn’t further clarified.RELATED:Bethesda Allegedly Isn’t Providing Abortion Support Microsoft PromisedWhat is clarified is that Take-Two has spent the time since theSupreme Court’s decisionworking with its benefit providers in the U.S. to ensure it’s providing adequate support given these changing political circumstances. Take-Two explains that it is expanding its travel and benefits program within the country. Further, it’s adopting the Maven benefits platform which provides “critical support across fertility, pregnancy, adoption, parenting, and pediatrics.” Take-Two then says that it will “continue to evaluate” whether its program meets its employees' needs, which could mean additional changes will be made as necessary in the future.
The concluding portion of Take-Two’s statement serves to capture the general idea behind the company’s efforts. It says that, to Take-Two, “our people are the heart of our company, and we remain dedicated to protecting their health, well-being, and safety.”
It’s unclear at this point in time why it took Take-Two so long to release a statement regarding the Supreme Court’s decision. It, along withActivision Blizzard, was one of the largest video game companies in the world to not initially say something. It’s possible that Take-Two took the time to evaluate its current benefits and how its employees would be impacted first. It’s also possible that Take-Two only moved to make this decision once it found that not doing so would negatively impact its business.
A statement from Take-Two is likely to be received well by employees, but this is not necessarily a guarantee. Take-Two doesn’t have an organized employee advocacy group like some companies, so it’s unclear if all needs are being met by Take-Two’s planned benefit changes. That could change if those needs aren’t met. Activision Blizzard employees are currently planning a walk-out for July 21 in an effort tohave Activision Blizzard leadership make several key changes, including improving benefits for women and LGBT employees. Roe v. Wade has forced many working in the gaming industry to reevaluate their employers and whether they’re being taken care of. Take-Two clearly sees this as a priority for those within the company, as well.
