To our fans, friends, sponsors, and invaluable partner conventions:

It’s been just over a week since the 2024 election in the US, and my heart is still a whirlwind of emotions: profound sadness, burning anger, an unsettling fear for the future of our communities, and an even stronger determination about my place in the monumental journey that lies ahead—our mission until January 2029 is clear: to survive and to uplift each other in this struggle.

Those of you who know me well understand that I may not be the one at the forefront of protests, fighting bravely for change. Stepping into that role would put both my communities and myself in jeopardy—an unacceptable risk that I cannot take.

Instead, through Anime Game Show Party Studios, I will channel my energy into nurturing our community’s spirit to keep us engaged and inspired. I want to be a refuge for all those who need to escape the turmoil, for those who are overwhelmed by the chaos of our times—both now and in the days to come. I pledge to deliver professional, high-quality, entertaining, and enlightening game shows, panels, and live events at conventions across the US. I am re-committing myself to enriching our shared experiences through my Twitch channel, where laughter and connection will abound.

Those on the front lines of this battle can’t fight forever; they deserve moments of rest. None of us can navigate the relentless tide of information—and misinformation—along with the upcoming increases of harassment and bullying alone.

Both the Twitch channel and the convention spaces I perform in will be safe havens where everyone is encouraged to express their true selves and revel in the joy I strive to provide. Hate, in any form, will be met with swift, decisive action: removal from an event and connection with convention staff for potential violations, or, in the realm of Twitch, an immediate ban from the channel accompanied by a formal report.

I want to assure you that none of these ideas for the upcoming months are new; they’re the values I have always held dear and a vision of what I want Anime Game Show Party Studios to embody.

In the spirit of transparency, I will be sharing the full written Guiding Principles document on our website for anyone to peruse. Please look for it in the coming days.

Though the world feels overwhelmingly uncertain right now, remember that none of us stand alone. Together, we will navigate this storm—and ultimately, we will rise and thrive.

Please take care of yourselves, and tell the folks you love that you love them.

Sincerely,
Dustin “Dusty” Riley
Founder/Producer, Anime Game Show Party Studios