Pokemon GO developer Niantic Labs have announced that they will be making donations from the proceeds of this year's Pokemon GO Fest.
On their blog, Niantic announced that they will be donating to a few different causes in response to the Black Lives Matter movement. The developer will donate at least $5 million from the ticket sales from this year's Pokemon GO Fest. Half of these proceeds will go to funding new projects from Black gaming and AR creators with the ultimate goal of increasing content that will represent a more diverse view of the world. The other half will go to nonprofit organizations that are helping local communities rebuild.
Niantic will also be donating $100,000 to the Marsha P. Johnson Institute, which supports Black trans people, with an employee match of up to $50,000. The donation will be made in honor of the Black Lives Matter movement and Pride month, with the Diversity and Inclusion team believing that this is the right thing to do to support those who are most vulnerable to police brutality and other forms of oppression.
"We are committed to this cause," stated Niantic's John Hanke. "These initiatives don't end with an announcement. The work to follow through will require years of effort to yield the impact we seek. Along the way, we'll be looking for even more opportunities to deepen these initiatives.
The heart of Niantic is our community of players. It is imperative that we stand up to support our Black Trainers, Agents, and Wizards. We aim to be a force of change committed to the long road ahead of rebuilding a more just and fair system where historical racial divides are overcome and where all are welcomed, valued, and have a fair chance at success. The first step is overcoming the racism and injustice that prevents members of our community from safely enjoying the freedom and pleasure of a simple walk or run outdoors. Black Lives Matter."
Pokemon GO is available now on Android and iOS devices. This year's Pokemon GO Fest will take place on July 25th and 26th, and will be virtual, allowing trainers to participate no matter where they live. For the first time in the history of the event, ticket holders will be able to participate in both days. The weekend will include bonuses, Pokemon encounters, and Special Research, and will allow trainers from all over the world to connect with one another.
