POC Cosplayers
POC cosplayers face many problems in the community today. From discrimination from photographers to racist comments, POC cosplayers are constantly put down and disrespected just because they were born a certain color. But they are not going down without a fight. They are determined to fight the hate and spread their love throughout the community. Cosplayers of color are just as fantastic as any other cosplayers.
Every cosplayer of color has their own stories of their encounters with racist keyboard warriors. These are individuals who hide behind the computer screen and tear down people over the Internet. Some are just trolls while others are shockingly some of your favorite cosplayers. The more popular keyboard Warriors tend to hide behind their fans for protection and believe that since they have a high following that they can get away with bullying.
Every cosplayer of color has their own stories of their encounters with racist keyboard warriors. These are individuals who hide behind the computer screen and tear down people over the Internet. Some are just trolls while others are shockingly some of your favorite cosplayers. The more popular keyboard Warriors tend to hide behind their fans for protection and believe that since they have a high following that they can get away with bullying.
Another problem decimating the cosplay community today is blackface. Non POC cosplayers don't seem to understand why blackface is so disrespectful to people of color. There are countless explanations for why blackface is bad including the creation of it. "The practice gained popularity during the 19th century and contributed to the spread of racial stereotypes such as the "happy-go-lucky darky on the plantation" or the "dandified coon". Some non POC cosplayers feel as though since they are not doing it to make fun of black cosplayers that it's ok. I want to make a little comparison so they can understand a little better. Everyone is aware about Nazi Germany and all the horrible things that happened during that time. Even today the swastika is still a reminder of all the hate and genocide that had occurred. So a person who wear the swastika today will still receive backlash whether they support the true meaning or not.
Therefore, even though these cosplayers who blackface aren't doing it to try and offend black cosplayers they are still doing a practice that was meant to make fun of them and belittle them. You should be proud of your skin color and you should be proud of who you are. Cosplaying is the freedom to express yourself and do what you love without judgment.
What are POC cosplayers doing to stop these problems? Cosplayers of color have created a highly reliable support system. They're making it easier to network with each other and build each other up. There are multiple groups supporting cosplayers of color and motivating them to continue doing what they love. Hashtags such as #blackcosplayerHere and #cosplayanyway were created to give cosplayers of color a voice and bring the problems they are facing to the light.
What are POC cosplayers doing to stop these problems? Cosplayers of color have created a highly reliable support system. They're making it easier to network with each other and build each other up. There are multiple groups supporting cosplayers of color and motivating them to continue doing what they love. Hashtags such as #blackcosplayerHere and #cosplayanyway were created to give cosplayers of color a voice and bring the problems they are facing to the light.
Cosplayers of color are no longer letting the hate continue. They are calling out individuals who choose to only see a skin color instead of seeing an individual with feelings and talents. They are letting the whole community know that they are here and that they matter.
What can non POC cosplayers do to stop the hate towards cosplayers of color? Share and support their work. Send them words of motivation and strength. Don't sit idly by while a POC cosplayer is being bullied. The people who sit by and watch are just is bad as the people who are doing wrong. Do not support black face of any kind in the community. Black cosplayers are bullied for their skin color constantly but non POC cosplayers are praised when they darken their skin to mimic a black or dark skinned character. You have a choice to make a difference. Why not start now?
What can non POC cosplayers do to stop the hate towards cosplayers of color? Share and support their work. Send them words of motivation and strength. Don't sit idly by while a POC cosplayer is being bullied. The people who sit by and watch are just is bad as the people who are doing wrong. Do not support black face of any kind in the community. Black cosplayers are bullied for their skin color constantly but non POC cosplayers are praised when they darken their skin to mimic a black or dark skinned character. You have a choice to make a difference. Why not start now?
Inspirational/Motivational quotes from POC Cosplayers
"Cosplay is the freedom to express yourself and have fun without judgment. Spread your positivity even when others are being negative."
- @Stellaranebula
- @Stellaranebula
"Cosplay isn't america's next top model and it's not about looking exactly like the character, it's about having fun and being creative with friends. Don't let the elitists jerks or naysayers ruin your shine!"
-@lucky_luna_cosplay
-@lucky_luna_cosplay
"When it comes to doing cosplay, your biggest fan should always be yourself. Do what you love for you not for others."
-@Annamaycosplay
-@Annamaycosplay
Photographer: Yusef Johnson (Leon Johnson)
“Cosplay isn’t about going by the norm or living up to what others expect you to be. Be your OWN ideal cosplayer. Enjoy it and have fun!”
-@Finalchase
Photo Credit: DesoloZ Photography
-@Finalchase
Photo Credit: DesoloZ Photography
“No matter if you're a Hero or Villain, it's okay to be different and stand above the crowd."
- @Queen_Goddess2u
Photographer: IDreamz
Her IG: instagram.com/I_N_Dreamz
- @Queen_Goddess2u
Photographer: IDreamz
Her IG: instagram.com/I_N_Dreamz
Cosplay is for everyone, no matter what size, race or gender, you can do it. Don’t let anyone stop you from having fun and enjoying the hobby you are passionate about!
-@Nekostrophic
-@Nekostrophic
Even though I’m fairly new to the cosplay scene its been one of the best experiences I’ve ever had! It’s given me more confidence, and is one of the best things to ever happen to me, despite the few negative/“the black version of *insert character*” comments. Do what ever makes you happy. Live life to the fullest and love your craft. Remember that “the only difference between ordinary and extraordinary is being just a little extra”!
- @DreezusPieceCosplay
Revy shot by Alan Lindsey (Nocturnal Radiance Photography)
- @DreezusPieceCosplay
Revy shot by Alan Lindsey (Nocturnal Radiance Photography)
"Be whoever you want to be regardless of what others say you can't. All of the possibilities are in your grasp."
-@Chubambii
-@Chubambii
As a person of color who is in the cosplay community surround yourself with positive and uplifting people; meaning hang out with people who aren’t afraid to speak about our issues as people of color in the cosplay community. And don’t let anyone make you stop cosplaying a character you love because of the color or your skin, keep going, you got this, and I believe in you, and lastly you look amazing in that costume.
- @chibimagicalgirl
Photography Credit: Ken_ad (IG)
https://www.facebook.com/KenADPhotography/
- @chibimagicalgirl
Photography Credit: Ken_ad (IG)
https://www.facebook.com/KenADPhotography/
"Listen fam, who cares if your skin color doesn't match someone's pwecious waifu/husbando. It's cosplay. If you love the character, done that fit and have a good ol' time"~ <3
-@hunniloli
-@hunniloli
“People, especially black people, have been judged for many millennia throughout history for minor flaws and even when they do good deeds. They never had to walk in your shoes so it’s best to continue doing what you love instead of settling for something you hate and listening to the naysayers in this short life that we have.”
- @carteeblackknight
Photographer credit: Joseph Lane
Cosplay: T’Challa/Black Panther
- @carteeblackknight
Photographer credit: Joseph Lane
Cosplay: T’Challa/Black Panther
"I'm really thankful to have such supportive people in my life who will constantly push me to become greater and believe in myself"
-@Panadonia
Tamatoa picture by @wheres_devin
Character "Tamatoa" from Moana
-@Panadonia
Tamatoa picture by @wheres_devin
Character "Tamatoa" from Moana
"Always cosplay what you want, but ask yourself does my cosplay objectify a marginalized population? If so, rethink your approach."
-@shaucatcosplay
Cosplay: Velma Dinkley, A pup named Scooby doo
Photographer: Danny Ryba , @dannyryba
-@shaucatcosplay
Cosplay: Velma Dinkley, A pup named Scooby doo
Photographer: Danny Ryba , @dannyryba
"... if it's bothering others enough to confront me in person (let alone online) about my cosplay being inaccurate due to my skin color, then I must be doing something right."
-@kawaiivilgaming
Photographer: James Rulison
-@kawaiivilgaming
Photographer: James Rulison
"Stay clear of the hate and you’ll be straight. Have fun with your friends and the party will never end!”
-@Hakizzle91
Instagram Profiles:
hakizzle91: Jazzy Jeff (Fresh Prince of Bel-Air), Lucas (Stranger Things), Gerald (Hey Arnold), Frozone (The Incredibles)
arcanekani: Will Smith (Fresh Prince of Bel-Air)
graffitisoul_219: Gumby
emperor2014: Geordi La Forge (Star Trek)
egsnbakie: Bob Ross
kingduvaljabub: Carlton (Fresh Prince of Bel-Air)
danimalzzzzz: Dash (The Incredibles)
troysdecoy: The Best Photographer Everrrrrrr
-@Hakizzle91
Instagram Profiles:
hakizzle91: Jazzy Jeff (Fresh Prince of Bel-Air), Lucas (Stranger Things), Gerald (Hey Arnold), Frozone (The Incredibles)
arcanekani: Will Smith (Fresh Prince of Bel-Air)
graffitisoul_219: Gumby
emperor2014: Geordi La Forge (Star Trek)
egsnbakie: Bob Ross
kingduvaljabub: Carlton (Fresh Prince of Bel-Air)
danimalzzzzz: Dash (The Incredibles)
troysdecoy: The Best Photographer Everrrrrrr
"Cosplay is love, Accuracy takes the fun out of it."
-@cosplayer1proto
Photo cred: Gb Snapshots
-@cosplayer1proto
Photo cred: Gb Snapshots
" There are a lot of people in the cosplay community who will try to steal your light. Dont let other's dictate what you want to cosplay, skin color/ appearance anything shouldn't matter, just have fun!"
- @miizahime
character: kogitsunemaru from touken ranbu
Photographer IG:@therealtechgeek_photography
- @miizahime
character: kogitsunemaru from touken ranbu
Photographer IG:@therealtechgeek_photography
"If you want to get into cosplay, just jump in. It's all about having fun.
- @static_jones_cosplay
Photographer: Erratic Aperture
- @static_jones_cosplay
Photographer: Erratic Aperture
Don't ever be afraid to step over the limits into today's society. The world will always be filled with challenges with good and bad. If there is a character you love, adore, treasure, feel connected, and look up to, bring that character to life and have fun. Take risks, go far and beyond with your creativity and mind. You're always going to face the dark side of things in the community and that's where you come in. Push the negativity, hatred away, keep your chin up high, bring smiles to others faces, and keep on loving on what you do. Together, we can change the world, by showing how strong and passionate we are, that we are no different than anyone else, other than people with a heart and mind of love, peace, compassion, and creativity. "
-@Falloutvixen
taken by U.v_photograhy!
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-@Falloutvixen
taken by U.v_photograhy!
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“Cosplay is for everyone regardless of race or size. Dont ever let anyone tell you otherwise. Live your best life 💕”
-@izzysaek0
-@izzysaek0
"Cosplay is Rated for Everyone! You don't need to have a certain skin tone, body size, gender, etc. to cosplay your favorite character!"
-@Stardust Megu
Photographer: Go Go Cosplay and Photography (both photos)
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gogocosplay/
Instagram: @gogocosplaynphoto
Cosplayer: Stardust Megu (Me)
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StardustMegu/
Instagram: @stardust_megu
Twitter: @Stardust_Megu
-@Stardust Megu
Photographer: Go Go Cosplay and Photography (both photos)
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gogocosplay/
Instagram: @gogocosplaynphoto
Cosplayer: Stardust Megu (Me)
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StardustMegu/
Instagram: @stardust_megu
Twitter: @Stardust_Megu
"What cosplay means to me is that no matter who you are and what you look like it’s for you. Cosplay is for you, it’s for me, it’s literally for everyone, everyone can do it! It’s wonderful to be a part of a community that accepts you as you are! Cosplay is also about embodying a character to your best abilities. You’re showing your love and admiration for a character to a whole new level and it doesn’t have to be 100% accurate as long as YOU love it if other people love it that’s cool too but it’s about what makes YOU happy."
-@kaijuus_
-@kaijuus_
"There are so many POC cosplayers out there! We have such amazing cosplayers slaying the cosplay world I just wish we shared/ promoted as often as our White and Non-East Asian counterparts. So let's support our lovely sisters and brothers <3."
-@Yuki _Crissy
character: Umbreon
Photo by @mizukiofunderland
-@Yuki _Crissy
character: Umbreon
Photo by @mizukiofunderland
One problem I run into as a black Cosplayer is out right racist jokes/name play. No I'm not "GOKU Black" or "Blackkarot" I'm just cosplaying Goku 😐 pls stop it's not funny, just awkward.
- @eclipsed_isaiah
- @eclipsed_isaiah