E is for Elitism

illoria
Apr 5, 2018
2 min read

On a related note to yesterday’s topic is the epidemic of “Elitism”. For those not wise to cosplay lingo, this refers to people or cosplayers who put down others for not “doing it the right way”. Usually it’s crafters who look down on cosplayers who don’t make their own cosplays. They feel they are superior because they make everything from scratch. Or they look down on someone who is a beginner and put together an imperfect cosplay or an inaccurate one.

However, this is wrong, toxic and contributes to even more drama. (And we don’t need more drama like we talked about yesterday!!) There is nothing wrong with buying a cosplay or thrifting one, or an inaccurate cosplay. Not everyone has the skills, time, or money necessary to make top of the line cosplays, props, or even wigs. Buying is typically budget friendly or supports cosplayers who make a living from selling cosplay items.

Cosplay in the way that suits you best and leave others out of it. There are no rules governing cosplay. Now if you enter the competition side of cosplay, then yes, there are rules, but don’t put down the other entrants. Follow the old adage: “If you have nothing nice to say, then don’t say it.”

I guarantee that if you are looking something positive, you will find at least one thing to say as a compliment. I struggle with pre-judging people since I’m a very competitive person. But I try to pick out parts of cosplay or something I like to compliment people on at conventions even if I don't like the whole cosplay. If they are in the contest too, then I ask them how they did it. I might learn something new if I don’t instantly reject them as not being “in my class”. Who knows? They might be better than I am at some techniques.

Keep an open and friendly mind, especially at conventions. Be friendly to others and you’ll find the same coming back to you. Cosplaying is supposed to be fun! Let’s not ruin it.

How has elitism affected you or someone you know? What do you do when you see it happening?