Raising awareness has made an interesting turn as Twitch, the popular streaming site for gamers far and wide announced that a four-hour live competitive gaming event joined by a dozen popular and professional gamers that will take place none other than at the White House itself next Monday, Dec. 12. The gaming event marks the first time in history that the White House delve into the world of esports and gaming.
The White House Competitive Gaming Event delivers its purpose of spreading the importance of health insurance. Hosted by Twitch streamer and programming manager, Anna Prosser "misscliks" Robinson, the event will be participated by popular Twitch streamers including ActaBunniFooFoo, Annemunition, bijoudemi, and darkness_429 along with Elspeth, imcoty and many more, according to Digital Trends.
The players will be playing various games such as the Rocket League Pro-Am Showmatch of Street Fighter V featuring Justin Wong and Mike Ross, along with members from Rocket League team from NRG esports. Commentary will be provided by Gootecks and Goldenboy, as reported by Business Wire.
The players will also share their insights regarding the importance of grabbing a health insurance with the advent of the supposed replacement of the Affordable Healthcare Act or Obamacare by the upcoming Trump presidency. Prior to the passage of the Affordable Care Act in 2010, young adults (19- to 25-year-olds) had the highest uninsured rates of any demographic. The Obama administration has been making an effort to target health coverage toward underserved demographics, including young adults - many of whom play games, starting with a public service announcement which encourages the gamer to sign up for a health insurance, according to Polygon.
"Their desire to present the Competitive Gaming Event to promote health coverage enrollment exemplifies how they continue to have their hand on the pulse of the younger generation," said Brian Petrocelli, Product Marketing Manager of Twitch in a statement from Kotaku. "We share their enthusiasm since we also see the value of health coverage and encourage everyone to explore their options." Petrocelli also mentioned that Twitch appreciates the newfound acclaim of the White House to their passionate community.
As noted by Polygon, The White House Competitive Gaming Event is part of the Department of Health and Human Services' new initiative to enroll young adults in health insurance. Twitch, which is running the event, has also been participating in that youth outreach program, promoting HealthCare.gov with pre-roll ads and more.