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New IGDA executive director Kate Edwards has spoken of her regret that the organisation was involved in a controversial YetiZen party at GDC on Tuesday that featured a number of scantily clad women dancing.
In a statement to Develop, Edwards said the IGDA recognised that some of the performers’ clothing was "inappropriate".
She went on to say that some of the activities during the party, which it co-presented, were not expected or approved of by the group.
Edwards admitted that the organisation needed to be more vigilant in future when conducting events.
"As many of you know, the IGDA was a co-presenter of the YetiZen party Tuesday evening," she said.
"We recognise that some of the performers’ costumes at the party were inappropriate, and also some of the activities they performed were not what we expected or approved. We regret that the IGDA was involved in this situation. We do not condone activities that objectify or demean women or any other group of people.
"One of the core values of the IGDA is encouraging inclusion and diversity. Obviously we need to be more vigilant in our efforts. We intend to be so in the future."
The furore surrounding the party however has already sparked a number of developers and industry professionals to resign from the group, including game designer Brenda Romero who quit her role as co-chair of the IGDA Women in Games SIG today "effective immediately".
IGDA board member Darius Kazemi has also resigned, while Women in Games Boston has pulled its support for the organisation.
You can read the full initial story here.
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