2020 has been an incredible year, and not always in the best way. The United States has had more than its fair share of the trials and tribulations over the year, though it’s been far from alone in the events.
In the last week, thousands upon thousands of United States citizens have taken to the streets in a political protest against a variety of social issues, primarily focused on police brutality and the treatment of the Black community.
While we won’t be getting into the finer sides of the political debate around the issues, countless companies have been voicing their supports of the protests and letting protestors know that they stand with them. Companies like Riot, Bethesda, and now EA have joined in to support.
EA has gone far enough now to postpone an event that they had planned, set to celebrate their upcoming Madden 21 title. While tomorrow was supposed to be a first look into the game, the developers have postponed this event.
EA’s primary reason for doing such is to show support for the protestors and join in on their cause. More than anything, EA seems hesitant to share the first look out of respect for the movement and a desire not to distract from the issues.
An official statement from EA SPORTS pic.twitter.com/MKdgJjvKJB
— Madden NFL 25 (@EAMaddenNFL) May 31, 2020
“We stand with our African American / Black community of friends, players, colleagues, and partners,” EA wrote on Twitter, which you can read above. “Our immediate attention is on actions we can take to drive change against the unjust treatment and systemic bias that is plaguing the nation and our world.”
“We’ll find another time to talk football with you. Because this is bigger than a game, bigger than sports, and needs all of us to stand together and commit to change.”
EA’s decision to put profit and hype to the wayside – which is far from what the majority of companies would generally do – is an incredibly thoughtful gesture to the society that they live in. Rather than steal any spotlight from the current events, they’re taking a step back and letting people focus on what matters.
Of course, the decision hasn’t been met with unanimous popularity. There are plenty who disagree with the protests continuing on tonight, and those voices were more than ready to share their displeasure at EA’s choice.
Whether you agree with the politics and message of the protestors moving through the nation, though, EA’s decision is one made with attention paid to their community and culture. It’s a wonderful gesture from the developers as we all work towards finding normalcy in one of the most tumultuous years in recent times.
