Women in Games, Out Making Games, and BAME in Games have issued a joint statement condemning Roblox’s newly introduced ‘sensitive issues’ label for user-created content. In their letter, they argue that this guideline undermines both creative expression and social justice, asserting that treating equality and human rights as debatable weakens those principles.

This motion follows Roblox’s announcement aimed at shielding users under 13 from content concerning certain issues, which will require parental consent for access. The platform did not provide a specific list of what constitutes ‘sensitive issues’, opting instead for a broad definition that includes any contentious social, political, or religious topics that could provoke a strong emotional response.

Examples cited include immigration, gun control, and racial profiling. The groups stress the importance of educating children on these issues rather than silencing discussions, warning that the policy risks framing justice and equality as matters of opinion rather than universal values.

The advocacy groups conclude by questioning the need for such a vague filtering system when established age rating systems like PEGI or ESRB exist, highlighting the contradiction in Roblox simultaneously expanding ESRB ratings while introducing a subjective filter.

The new policy could confuse a diverse audience and inadvertently deepen divisions rather than protect children from exposure to complex social discussions.