Games Done Queer: Speedrunning for a Cause and Community

Uniting Through Pixels: Celebrating Identity and Advocacy in Gaming

A Beacon of Hope: Games Done Queer's Mission

In response to the current challenging environment for the LGBTQIA+ community, especially in the US, Games Done Quick (GDQ) has launched \"Games Done Queer.\" This charitable speedrunning event, scheduled from October 31 to November 2, is dedicated to raising funds for Lambda Legal, an organization committed to defending LGBTQIA+ rights and supporting individuals affected by HIV. Organizer Rae Brusky emphasizes that beyond fundraising, the event also serves as a vital platform for celebration and relaxation, offering a much-needed respite from ongoing societal pressures.

Lambda Legal: A Legacy of Advocacy

Founded in the 1970s, Lambda Legal has been a consistent force in advocating for gay rights in the United States. Their historical achievements include the invalidation of archaic \"sodomy\" laws, some of which remained active until as recently as 2003. Brusky underscores the critical importance of Lambda Legal's ongoing work, while also highlighting the event's dual purpose: contributing to a noble cause and fostering a joyful, supportive atmosphere for participants.

Finding Sanctuary: Community and Mental Well-being

Brusky acknowledges the heavy emotional toll that constant exposure to distressing news takes on individuals within the community. The event seeks to provide a temporary escape from these anxieties, allowing participants to de-stress and enjoy themselves, all while feeling a sense of contribution to a greater cause. The goal is to offer a weekend where people can experience less stress and a break from negativity, knowing their involvement directly supports the fight for equality and well-being.

An Inclusive Evolution: Speedrunning's Welcoming Arms

The speedrunning community, alongside the fighting game community, has become increasingly known for its inclusive environment. Games Done Quick has actively promoted marginalized speedrunners in recent years, recognizing their skill and fostering a safe space. Brusky points out that while the community wasn't always this welcoming, significant efforts have been made to ensure that queer individuals feel secure and comfortable being open about their identities during these events. This growing sense of safety has naturally attracted more participants, illustrating a powerful shift towards acceptance.

Behind the Scenes: A Passionate Effort

Rae Brusky's personal journey reflects the evolving inclusivity of GDQ. Starting as a backstage assistant, Brusky became a driving force behind the creation of Games Done Queer, demonstrating a deep commitment to the cause. This initiative is a testament to the dedication of individuals within the community who have consistently pushed for greater representation and safety, transforming the event into a more accepting space for everyone.

Anticipation and Impact: The Event's Promise

Brusky expresses immense enthusiasm for the upcoming event, highlighting expected highlights such as speedrunner Motss's performance on Elite Beat Agents and a mysterious \"Gay%\" speedrun of a Super Mario World fan-made level featuring Sonic. The organizer hopes the event will not only excite the existing queer community but also surprise external audiences with the sheer volume of support and solidarity. Brusky aims for a powerful display of unity, emphasizing that the queer community is larger and more organized than many perceive, especially when united for an important cause. Beyond advocacy, a core objective remains for everyone to have an enjoyable and uplifting experience during these challenging times.

Overwhelming Response: A Testament to Unity

Despite the current climate of apprehension, the event has been met with an outpouring of camaraderie. The sheer volume of game submissions for Games Done Queer was so high that only a fraction could be accepted, demonstrating the strong desire within the community to participate and contribute. This overwhelming response underscores the vital need for such platforms and the deep sense of solidarity among queer gamers and allies.

The Challenge of Limited Time: A Showcase of Talent

Brusky revealed that the event received approximately 450 hours of content submissions for a mere 36-hour broadcast, resulting in an acceptance rate of just 2.7%. This statistic highlights the incredible talent and dedication within the speedrunning community. Brusky extended gratitude to all submitters, acknowledging the bravery required to present one's work for judgment and recognizing the significant effort put in by everyone, regardless of acceptance.