Video Games as a Platform for Critical Resistance

April 16, 2025 - 17:50

DeKALB – A Northwestern professor recently highlighted the role of video games in perpetuating racial stereotypes during a lecture at Northern Illinois University. Speaking on the topic, the professor emphasized how gaming often displaces the labor of leveling up onto Chinese and Asian individuals, reinforcing harmful narratives about these communities.

The event was organized by the Asian American Resource Certificates Program (AACP) and took place at NIU's Asian American Resource Center. The professor's insights shed light on the intersection of gaming culture and social justice, urging players to critically examine the implications of their virtual experiences.

As video games continue to gain popularity, the discussion around their impact on societal perceptions becomes increasingly relevant. The professor's remarks challenge gamers to consider how their engagement with these digital worlds can either perpetuate stereotypes or serve as a medium for resistance and change. This conversation underscores the need for awareness and advocacy within the gaming community.