The Kickback: The Intersection of Culture and Gaming

It's a space where young, enthusiastic gamers can learn from professionals and gain insights into the gaming industry. It's a space that fosters creativity, collaboration, and most importantly, inclusivity. It’s called The Kickback

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‍Ryan Johnson: “The Kickback is everything entertainment, everything engagement, but more importantly everything education. We conceived the idea of celebrating the lifestyle of gaming culture by blending that with esports and creating opportunities for young people of color to learn how they can grow and thrive in the space.”

Black Culture and gaming have always been intertwined, but in more ways than none it seems The culture is hardly included when it comes to the broader gaming culture and its representation. Presented by Cxmmunity The Kickback seeks to bridge this gap, championing for the greater representation of people of color in gaming. By giving a voice to a diverse set of experiences and perspectives, it's paving the way of more inclusive and equitable gaming culture. Which is super important, cause look at the killmonger hairstyle. Now, look at Miles Morales from Spiderman. Now, look at Ekko from League of Legends. Now, look at Phoenix from Valorant. I could keep going, but you get the point.

At The Kickback, one could see the future of gaming - diverse, inclusive, and richly influenced by a kaleidoscope of cultures. The Kickback fosters a sense of belonging and provides a platform for underrepresented voices in the gaming world. It’s not just about playing the games; it’s about changing the game. Being able to serve a series of panels, job opportunities, and tournaments in gaming, then ending the night with a live performance featuring Timothy Isaiah and NLE Choppa is unprecedented. But anyone who's been to a kickback knows it's going to be chill and lit at the same time. 

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