Activision Blizzard Settles Lawsuit for $50 Million with California Regulator
Activision Blizzard to Pay $50 Million to Settle Workplace Discrimination Lawsuit
Activision Blizzard has agreed to settle a lawsuit for approximately $50 million with a California regulator. The lawsuit, filed in 2021, alleged that the video game company discriminated against its female employees by denying them promotion opportunities and underpaying them.
California’s Civil Rights Department Files Lawsuit Against Activision
California’s Civil Rights Department (CRD) sued Activision Blizzard after a two-year investigation, accusing the company of routinely underpaying and failing to promote female employees and condoning sexual harassment. The lawsuit was the result of claims dating back to Oct. 12, 2015, and continuing through Dec. 31, 2020.
Activision Blizzard’s Obligations as Part of the Settlement Agreement
As part of the settlement agreement, Activision Blizzard will take additional steps to ensure fair pay and promotion practices. The company has also agreed to provide monetary relief to women who were employees or contract workers in California between the specified dates.
The CRD Agrees to Withdraw Allegations
The CRD has agreed to entirely withdraw the allegations and dismiss its systemic harassment-related claims against Activision Blizzard as part of the settlement agreement.
Activision Blizzard’s Response to the Settlement
Activision Blizzard released a statement expressing satisfaction with the agreement, highlighting that no court or independent investigation has substantiated any allegations of systemic or widespread sexual harassment at the company. The company also clarified that no investigation has proven any wrongdoing by its board or chief executive regarding workplace misconduct.
Prior Settlement Claims
In addition to this settlement, Activision Blizzard had also agreed in 2021 to pay up to $18 million to settle similar claims made by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.
