Publisher Board & Dice has issued an official statement following recent racist remarks posted on social media platforms by author Daniele Tascini, whose design pedigree includes The Voyages of Marco Polo, Teotihuacan: City of Gods, and more recently Tekhenu: Obelisk of the Sun. The statement posted by Board & Dice on the publisher’s official web site reads as follows:

“At Board & Dice, we condemn all expressions of discrimination and bigotry, whether related to gender, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, body size, race, culture, age, or religion. We are proud to continue on our path of actively working towards positive change, both in terms of continued internal education and changes, but also with regards to those we choose to work with.

In light of recent racist remarks made by Daniele Tascini, we unequivocally condemn all aspects and acts of racism, intended or not, including comments, epithets, slurs, jokes, or other language which is considered hateful, inappropriate, or unwanted by the group of people such words are referring to.

It is our firm belief that no individual has the right to make excuses for themselves when faced with the realization that their words have caused harm or hurt another human being. Instead, whether harm was intended or not, the first reaction must be to acknowledge wrongdoing, followed by an immediate and sincere apology. Once then can steps be taken to rectify the wrongdoing. And, only then, give the grace of those who were hurt, should explanations be given, id requested by those who were hurt in the process.

When called upon to make a statement and a strong apology, Mr. Tascini failed to acknowledge his wrongdoing, being primarily concerned with providing context to his racist remarks.

Words matter, but actions matter more.

Board & Dice hereby immediately suspends all collaboration and work with Mr. Tascini. While we are under contractual obligation to continue to support previously released board games designed by Mr. Tascini, we will not consider any future designs of his for publication.

Board & Dice Team

January 16, 2021”

Source: Board & Dice