The makers of the video game Grand Theft Auto said yesterday they would remove the phrase “Kill the Haitians,” which is given as an instruction to players.
Mayor Bloomberg sent a letter to Take-Two Interactive Software last week demanding that they remove the phrase or else be investigated by the city’s Human Rights Commission. Many in the Haitian community also wanted the phrase removed.
“This type of hate has no place in our city and as mayor I will not tolerate it,” Bloomberg said in a statement.
The game’s critics say it also advocates killing cops and women.
Bloomberg said the city’s investigation of the game’s makers, Take-Two Interactive Software, would be suspended while the game is changed.
“I believe that this New York City-based company has gained a greater appreciation for the diversity which makes this city great and hope, as they do, that they will be able to repair their relationship with our vibrant Haitian community,” Bloomberg said.
Calls to Take-Two Interactive Software were not immediately returned.
Bloomberg will visit Haiti next month to celebrate the bicentennial of that nation’s Independence Day.