A Prominent Accessibility Advocate Worked with Studios, – But She Never Existed

In a shocking revelation, the gaming community is grappling with the possibility that Susan Banks, a prominent advocate for accessibility in video games, may never have existed. Banks was believed to have passed away in 2019, prompting an outpouring of grief and tributes from the industry. She was credited with raising awareness for accessibility issues, particularly for Deaf and hard-of-hearing gamers, and was involved with various studios to promote inclusive design. However, investigations have surfaced suggesting that Banks was a fabricated persona, with no verifiable records of her existence, including no employment history at Gallaudet University, where she claimed to have worked. Her supposed partner, Coty Craven, who announced her death, has also come under scrutiny, with claims that he may have misrepresented their relationship and her health issues. Despite the widespread recognition and memorials dedicated to Banks, including a GoFundMe campaign launched shortly before her alleged death, evidence points to a lack of any substantial proof of her life. The situation raises significant questions about authenticity and trust within the advocacy community, as many individuals and organizations had interacted with Banks solely through digital communication, never meeting her in person. The fallout from this revelation is likely to impact the ongoing discourse around accessibility in gaming and the integrity of advocacy efforts.

- Susan Banks, a supposed accessibility advocate, may never have existed.

- Investigations found no verifiable records of her life or work.

- Her partner, Coty Craven, is under scrutiny for potential misrepresentation.

- The gaming community mourned her alleged death, believing she was a real person.

- The situation raises concerns about authenticity in advocacy efforts.