By Tyler Chancey
A new tabletop organization has recently launched. While the industry has its share of groups that promote the benefits of tabletop gaming such as The Bodhana Group, the newly launched Rose Gauntlet Foundation will promote creative LGBTQ+ and BIPOC voices.
The Rose Gauntlet Foundation Announcement
According to their first official blog post, the Rose Gauntlet Foundation is a 501c3 Non-Profit organization. It is a groundbreaking initiative that fosters diversity, equity, and inclusivity within the tabletop industry.
The origins of the Rose Gauntlet Foundation date back to 2017. The co-founder, Isaac Vega (Wild Gardens), reached out to several LGBTQ+ creators within the tabletop industry and invited them to dinner during PAX Unplugged.
This event, now referred to as the "Big Gay Dinner" slowly expanded, broadening its reach to others within the space. Those who may not have the same means or connections within the industry to bond or network.
This expansion led to the foundation of the BIPOC Lounge which was available at GenCon 2022. The success of both this and the aforementioned dinner events drew the attention of various companies and conventions that wished to support these endeavors.
Now, the Rose Gauntlet Foundation is here. It is an organization dedicated to providing a home for events that foster community, offer resources, and create opportunities for underrepresented groups within the tabletop space.
The core programs they will provide are as follows:
- Game Changers: This is a program designed to empower women in the gaming industry by offering valuable resources and networking opportunities. This debuted at this year's Origins Game Fair with over 30 women in attendance.
- The BIPOC Lounge: This is a deluxe safe space at GenCon where BIPOC tabletop industry professionals and gamers can connect, share information, and access vital resources.
- The Big Gay Dinner: Tailored to the LGBTQ+ Community, the event will offer similar resources at PAX Unplugged
As of right now, the Rose Gauntlet Foundation is actively accepting donations and does provide a newsletter regarding upcoming initiatives.
