The Entertainment Consumers Association, the videogame advocacy group that has been heavily involved in the Schwarzenegger v. EMA Supreme Court case, has surpassed the 500,000 members mark.
The number for the non-profit organization is in regards to members in North America. The group has been in existence for just over four years and has grown steadily since it’s creation.
"Perhaps the most important aspect of this announcement reflects the fact that gamers care, that the trade supports them and that non endemic companies and brands want to support gaming," said Hal Halpin, President of the ECA, in the press release. "It makes more people want to join and more partners want to be associated, which translates into even more member benefits… a self-perpetuating cycle. Truly, I couldn’t be any more proud of our members, partners and staff."
A key fighter for videogame rights, the group has received more mainstream notice since Schwarzenegger v. EMA went to the Supreme Court, where it hosted a rally outside the court’s steps during the case’s opening arguments. Members include Adam Sessler, several members of the cast of "The Guild", Brian O’Halloran of "Clerks" fame, and many more.
"As someone who’s been an avid gamer her entire life, it’s exciting to see video games take their place alongside movies and music as a popular, mainstream form of entertainment and culture – but there’s still work to be done," said writer and host of online video content for IGN Jessica Chobot. "I’m honored to support the ECA in its mission of video games advocacy and education – and to help video game consumers’ voices be heard."
The group provides several benefits to members including health insurance, discounts for game-centric clothing, conventions and accessories, and job postings in the game industry. It’s site is also host to a forum and has partnered itself with the likes of Atari, Alienware, and Chase Bank.
