Statement about Freeplay Parallels 2026

For 22 years, Freeplay has been a diverse, inclusive and welcoming place for people of many different backgrounds and perspectives to get together, chat about games and our lived experiences. We can’t express how much we value our community, sponsors and donors and all of the support we have received over the years.

Recently, the board decided to refund and remove acknowledgement of a donor from Parallels 2026. The donor has been a valued member of the Freeplay community for many years. We regret the manner in which aspects of this process occurred and the upset this has caused within our community. We will be seeking further discussions with all affected parties to hopefully achieve a better outcome for the situation moving forward.

The public discussion has included serious allegations about the motivations behind our actions. We reject suggestions that Freeplay acted out of prejudice towards any person or community. We made a very difficult decision under significant time pressure with the understanding that Parallels 2026 was at risk of not going ahead.

We understand many of you would like clarity on the events from us. Given the sensitivities of the situation, and our responsibility to everyone involved, we won't be commenting on private communications or the various claims that have been made publicly. This week, members of our board have received violent threats, which we have reported to the police. We know that feelings in our community are running high. We ask that if you choose to engage online, please do so with care and respect for everyone involved. 

We’re proud to have platformed eight phenomenal, personal and important games at Parallels this year. Moving forward, Freeplay’s focus remains on continuing to build a strong, welcoming and respectful community for people to come together, share stories, and enjoy experimental, cool, heartfelt, wacky, powerful games.

The Freeplay Board