Cosplay Conventions Should Be All About Fun and Games.

As a long time cosplayer, I have found it extremely aggravating when people want to cause trouble and drama at conventions. I have seen way too much of it and quite frankly, I am sick of it. My friends and I are in the agreement that these conventions should be our escape from reality.

Yet, rather than use these cons as a bastion to mingle with fans, meet celebrities, and purchase new items for props or games, some people would rather create problems for other patrons. I find it sad and pathetic that such drama queens would stoop to a level of petty disdain for other cosplayers and fans alike.

Seriously? You want to ruin someone else's fun because you want to stir up some trouble? Or, how about this: spreading rumors about someone when there is really no basis in said falsehoods!

For example, I knew of a guy who, back in 2014, was accused of being a creep simply for trying to talk to people. Did anyone ever once walk up to said person to get his side of the story? Nope. They never did. If these convention drama queens did some investigation, I am certain it would have interested them to know that poor guy in question had to watch his mother die that year. Also, since he knew nothing of the lingo or the customs, it would have been more helpful to have taught him the rules!

And yes, I was that person.

Comic Cons should be an escape from reality. Not a hive for gossip and drama. Nor is it a place to say who has the better cosplay. In fact, those who do cosplay do so out of the love for the character or the show. Also, in regard to cosplay contests, they should be held out of fun and games. Sadly, some people see cosplay contests as fertile ground to start issues with others. So what is someone's cosplay is not as well made or fancy as another person's cosplay?! As I said before, people who cosplay do so out of the fun of it.

Perhaps I should also mention cosplay is NOT consent! Please be very cautious and respectful around other cosplayers. Also, take in consideration their age and their comfort levels. If a cosplayer says "no" in regard to a photo or an exchange of social media, please respect their wishes. They have the same to have fun as much as you.

So, I am just going to say this clear as day: if you do not like someone, do not pay them any mind! Should they talk to you or come your way, just be nice to them. Even if you do not like them, still be nice to them regardless! You never know what horrors such people have to face on a day to day basis! For all you may know is that one person you hate may have a personal tragedy regarding a death in the family or a disability which robs them of a normal life!

So to all Cosplay Convention goers, STOP with the hatred! It has no place at the Conventions. Leave that crap at home and enjoy yourselves. Also, should you see that one person you hate, please be nice to them. Sit down and talk to them. Work with them! You never know! You might end up liking that person! Yet, all it takes is courage to break out of your comfort zone!

In closing, I will say this again: leave the drama at home. Have fun at the conventions and enjoy the escape from reality!