3 minute read
On Friday 8 March the spotlight is on women across the world as we celebrate their achievements. To this day, more than 110 years after the maiden edition, an international women’s day is still sorely needed. In a world where gender equality and diversity are high on the agenda there is still an awful long way to go. Fortunately, important strides have been made in various areas.
The casino world is traditionally viewed as a typical male environment. Those who have had the pleasure of visiting VIAGE know this stigma has long since dissipated. Just like the entertainment offer within our complex changes over time, so has the position women have claimed within our business.
One world, a thousand women
The central theme of this year’s international women’s day is one world, a thousand women. A slogan that describes the role of women in our industry to a T. From playing various games to running casinos themselves, women have claimed their own unique place within this exciting world where luck and strategy intersect. Back in the day women ran the risk of being exiled from society if they were caught inside a casino but over the last decades this has changed dramatically.
'Women can play poker because anyone who can fake an orgasm can raise on a pair of deuces.' - Grace Kelly
Just think of French Eleanor Dumont who ran her own blackjack parlour in Nevada City, California. In spite of her gender the place was an extremely popular haunt. Male players came from far and wide to play with the formidable female dealer. Or how about Vanessa Selbst, the world’s most successful professional female poker player? Not only did she top the rankings on the Global Poker Index at one point, she also bagged three World Series of Poker bracelets: in 2008, 2012 and 2014. With career earnings around $12 million she has staked her place in the top 100 of the Overall All-Time Money List.
Competence
In case you haven’t caught on yet: the skills and strategic approach required to make money in a casino are obviously not gender-related. Since casino games became available online, people of all genders and backgrounds can play without the added pressure of physical presence. This has led to a more inclusive and diverse casino culture where women are increasingly thriving. The male dominance in the casino world has been relegated to the history books. Today approximately one third of the players are women and the gender balance improves year after year. Even in terms of the games they play, the difference between the genders is fading.
Behind the scenes
This is not surprising because behind the scenes women are making their mark on the casino entertainment industry as well. From casino managers to software developers, women play a crucial role in creating the exciting experiences casinos offer their customers. They bring fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to the table, allowing the industry to keep evolving.
Drop by VIAGE and you’ll find our entertainment centre has something for everyone, regardless of gender or background.
