Activision’s $18 Million Sex Bias Settlement Set To Receive Judge’s Signoff

An LA federal judge has said she is prepared to approve an $18 million settlement between Activision Blizzard Inc and the US Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) in a lawsuit claiming widespread sex discrimination by the American video game company.

On Tuesday, US District Judge Dale Fischer said that the deal was sufficient, but asked Activision and the EEOC to make some small amendments before her final approval is granted, such as clarifying the questions on a form that employees will use to apply for their payout. A hearing on the settlement is scheduled for next week.

In 2021, the EEOC accused Activision of failing to take corrective and preventive measures on sexual harassment complaints. The EEOC said Activision disfavoured women in pay and promotions and discriminated against employees who were pregnant. 

While Activision has denied violating anti-bias laws, the video games company has said it will make changes to how it deals with workplace complaints moving forward.