[COD] Facing Discrimination in COD: My Experience as an LGBTQ Player

First, I'd like to say that I'm an adult and in a place in life where I accept responsibility for my actions. That being said this isn't a post to complain about being banned,If I was wrong, I would be the first to admit it and take a look at my actions. Unfortunately I feel like I'm being targeted.

Hi everyone,

I’m reaching out to share a troubling experience. I’ve been playing Call of Duty multiplayer for about a year and a half. Over time, I’ve gotten much better at the game, often winning matches. I use a LGBTQ pride flag as my calling card, and I’ve noticed that some players get particularly upset when they see it displayed as victorious or in the last kill feed.

I do believe that my wins and my flag has led me to consistently be reported for Code of Conduct violations. I'm competitive and will admit that the "f" word has escaped my lips a few times, meanwhile I've been subjected to "Fag", or "homo" or "that's so gay" and I just laugh and attribute it to players being sore losers. I was banned for 14 days the first time. After being unbanned for just one day, I was banned again yesterday for an additional 30 days. This happened despite the fact that I did not curse at all. I was extra careful and everyone was waiting for 12AM to play Black Ops 6. My friends, though supportive, suggested I take down the flag to avoid discrimination.I will mention that my friends do curse, allot actually, and no one has ever been banned in the 3 months I've been playing with them. After my first ban one of my buddies, upset at my banning, would start every match with a list of curses, and nothing. It’s disheartening that in 2024, being open about who I am in a game can lead to such outcomes.

Gaming should be inclusive, a place where everyone can enjoy themselves without fear of being targeted for who they are. Has anyone else faced similar issues, or have advice on how to deal with this?

Thanks for listening.

On top is the title of the post I originally posted on the COD Reddit today. I'm hoping there are other community members who enjoy the game as much as I do and I'd love to make new friends. I've felt so disheartened by the entire situation.

My gamer username is: asumm33rs Or the Activision ID: asumm33rs#3093472 Or any other suggestions IG: Jayohnoo