Activision was sued by another federal agency and settled for US$18 million
Earlier today, the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission File a lawsuit After three years of investigation into suspected workplace discrimination, a lawsuit was filed against Activision Blizzard. The EEOC lawsuit states that the agency issued a letter to Activision on June 15-nearly a full month before the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing filed the lawsuit-according to the Wall Street Journal, the two parties have been negotiating since then .
After the EEOC lawsuit surfaced, Activision issued a Press release Announcing an agreement with federal agencies. The agreement involves the establishment of a “US$18 million fund to compensate and make up for eligible claimants,” and any remaining cash will be provided to relevant charities.
The same version promises an initiative to create software tools and training programs “to improve workplace policies and practices for employers across the technology industry.” There are other commitments, mainly related to updating policies and training reviewed by the EEOC.
Chief Executive Bobby Kotick said in a statement: “Discrimination, harassment, or unequal treatment of any kind is not allowed anywhere in our company. I am grateful to the employees who have bravely shared their experience.” I’m sorry that anyone has to experience misconduct, and I’m still committed to making Activision Blizzard one of the most inclusive, respected, and respected workplaces in the world.”
“We will continue to remain vigilant about our commitment to eliminate harassment and discrimination in the workplace. We thank the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission for its constructive participation as we are working hard to fulfill our commitment to eliminate misconduct in the workplace.”
This is just the latest lawsuit since California sued the company in July: On September 14, the American Communications Workers Association filed an unfair labor lawsuit on behalf of Activision Blizzard employees, and in August filed a lawsuit on behalf of shareholders. Recently, on September 20, it was reported that the SEC was conducting its own investigation and had subpoenaed Kotick and other executives. Of course there is also the original suit from California DFEH. These lawsuits are ongoing.
In order to catch up, here is Activision Blizzard litigation timetable explained.
Correction: The previous version of this article incorrectly stated that Activision had changed course after the EEOC filed a lawsuit. In fact, the submission of documents is a procedural prerequisite for the court to approve the settlement.