Halo Multiplayer Announcer Pledges Support For Trans Players

Jeff Steitzer, the iconic voice behind Halo's multiplayer, has spoken out about his support for trans rights, telling the community he "hope[s] things will be better for [them]" in the future.

The video of Steitzer came from the message site Cameo, where fans can request to have phrases or shoutouts from their favourite celebrities. When asked to repeat the words "trans rights" in his classic Halo announcer voice, Steitzer went one step further to show his support.

As transcribed by VGC, Steitzer reflected on his past, and how "the struggle of trans people reminds [him] so much of all the other struggles [he's] been witness to over the many years".

“I have to say, I’ve been around for a while, I’m kind of old. I’m going to be 70 this coming November and I’ve seen an awful lot, and the struggle of trans people reminds me so much of all the other struggles I’ve been witness to over the many years that I have been alive.

“I’ve watched the Black Americans’ struggle, the Asian Americans, the Hispanic individuals, I’ve seen gays and lesbians, and Native Americans… and now I see trans folks like yourself who basically want nothing more than to enjoy the equality that everybody else aspires to, and which I for one think you should have.”

After repeating the words "trans rights" in his iconic and much-loved voice, Steitzer added that he "hope[s] things will be better for [the community]" going forward.

“I hope things will be better for you – for all of us really – soon, and I’d like to say in conclusion to all of the trans people, all your friends and to you, you are all un-freaking-believable. Be well.”

Steitzer's words come after a large Pride campaign from Xbox earlier this year. A new Pride controller was gifted to influencers, Tell Me Why (a game based around a trans character) was made free to download for all players, and tons of in-game events celebrated the month. Microsoft also donated $150,000 to LGBTQIA+ non profit organisations.

Seeing such a prominent voice in the Xbox community speak openly and in support of trans people is not only refreshing, but hopefully makes the space for those who do belong in those communities feel more welcoming.

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