Game-makers who care about immigration are being invited to enter a contest to design a game that addresses migrant and refugee movement, integration and xenophobic hostility.
A prize of $10,000 will be awarded to the winning entry, by organizer Games for Change and the Migration Policy Institute. Games for Change describes itself as "a movement and community of practice dedicated to using digital games for social change." The Migration Policy Institute is a Washington D.C.-based nonprofit dedicated to "analysis, development, and evaluation of migration and refugee policies at local, national, and international levels," according to its mission statement.
"The integration of migrant populations has always been an important issue faced by many countries all around the world," states the competition page. "Integration is a two-way street, with native-born and immigrant populations both experiencing significant change, challenges and opportunity.
"How can a game help people understand and work through concerns over perceived job competition and changes in the cultural fabric while recognizing the economic, linguistic, and cultural benefits that can accrue to the broader society when immigrants can also succeed? How can a game experience emphasize community engagement to help migrants and their neighbors improve their understanding of each other?"
The contest is open to anyone, with a submission deadline of Feb. 15. The winner will be announced on March 15. You can find out more here.