Tanya DePass
I Need Diverse Games founder and overall badass, Tanya DePass, works to promote diversity and inclusion in gaming and support marginalized developers in the ever-changing world of video games. She strives for inclusivity in all realms of her life; as a bisexual woman, she knows that her sexuality is not always taken seriously by not only straight people but the gay community as well. “Bisexuality is real, valid, and not to be scoffed at as a phase,” DePass tells GO. “The B is in LGBTQIA+ for a reason.” Tanya is committed to helping underrepresented developers and creators in the gaming community rise to the forefront. She’s the programming & diversity coordinator for OrcaCon and GaymerX and often speaks on issues surrounding diversity, feminism, and intersectionality. She also runs the Dungeons & Dragons gaming show “Rivals of Waterdeep,” which seeks to highlight diverse voices in D&D. Published in gaming publications Green Ronin, Paizo, and Monte Cook Games — as well as Uncanny Magazine, Vice Gaming, and Paste Games — DePass is a driving force in the fight to create better games for all to enjoy. “The most rewarding aspect of my work is meeting people who feel like they belong in game,” she adds, “because of the visibility I’ve gained — or after seeing the D&D show I’m on with an all POC cast and knowing they have a place in the industry.” —GP
