Although the announcement that Mixer is shutting down in lieu ofMicrosoft’s new partnership with Facebook Gamingmay seem sudden to viewers and employees alike, the deal has clearly been in progress for some time. Xbox executive Phil Spencer had to step in and clarify that recent reports of workplace issues at Mixer had nothing to do with the platform’s demise.
Yesterday, Mixer’s ex-business developer Milan K. Lee came forward with his testimonyregarding racism at the Microsoft streaming platform.When the release of his TwitLonger post coincided with today’s surprising announcement, one Twitter user accused Lee of contributing to Mixer’s downfall.
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In response, Lee clarified that his statement on racism was completely unrelated to Microsoft’s latest decision. Specifically, he poked fun at the idea that his statement could “make [Microsoft] sellMixerin six hours.” Specifically, he stated that partnerships like the Facebook Gaming agreement “happen over time” and asked Phil Spencer to confirm his claims. Spencer briefly responded in a tweet confirming that “the future of Mixer” had nothing to do with Lee’s post. At the time of publication, Lee’s accuser has deleted his tweet and taken a social media hiatus.
Largely, Twitter comments sided with Lee. Several people mocked the lack of common sense in the allegation. At most, as one Twitter user said, Lee’s experience was a “symptom” of larger issues at Mixer. Facebook Gaming streamer Expazz cited earlier, more identifiable signs of Mixer’s problems, like the APIs and monetization features no longer working and even Microsoft developers and publishers failing to support the platform.
In contrast, responses to Spencer’s confirmation failed to address Lee’s allegations. Instead, Twitter userscriticized the Facebook Gaming partnership,pointing out potential privacy issues and their dislike for the platform.
Although Spencer, Microsoft, and Mixer’s staff have not announced any changes in procedure to prevent workplace racism yet, the Xbox head’s show of support for his former employee is the least that the corporation can do. WhileMixer streamers and staff are likely busy dealing with the new transition,hopefully, the ex-Mixer staffers and Microsoft will take tangible steps to stop people of color from sharing Lee’s experience.
