Back in the day, being a Black nerd came with a little bit of isolation. We were sans the term "blerd" and the ubiquity of social media pages that catered to the Black community's innumerable subcommunities. Today, you won't be too hard-pressed to find community in anime fan clubs or Marvel vs. DC debates. One of the best spaces to celebrate your affinities with other blerds is by attending fan conventions like Comic-Con.
The first Comic-Con took place in 1970, but as a matter of fact, there are over 100 multigenre conventions globally. New York Comic Con (NYCC) has been going strong since 2006. Its first and only cancellation of in-person events happened in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, when it transitioned to virtual programming. This past October, ReedPop got the band back together for a massive return to the Javits Center in Manhattan for NYCC 2021.
Blavity indulged in New York Comic Con’s return and, naturally, kept an eye out for Black cosplayers. Cosplay is one of the most significant feats of conventions aside from the panels, artists, comics and activations. Con-goers’ costumes can range from regular-degular store-bought costumes to homemade fits. Either way, everyone is included, celebrated and overjoyed to be among their nerdy community.
Your first Con can be a bit intimidating. Some advice?
Bring a friend or be prepared to make some. I attended with a cousin, but throughout the weekend, I ran into friends, made some new ones and saw a few mutuals from social media.
Deciding whether or not you want to dress up in full cartoon character garb in the daylight can also be a pretty hefty decision — it was for me. I attended my first day in a simple Marvel t-shirt, but after seeing others ace the assignment of bringing fictional characters to life, I wanted to join in on the fun.
I went as Riri Williams, aka Ironheart, for my second day and Scarlet Witch the next.
Not to brag, but Black Scarlet Witch? A huge hit.
Keep scrolling to see who we ran into and maybe get some inspiration for your next Con!
San Diego Comic-Con, which has no affiliation with New York Comic Con, is coming up on Nov. 26. Depending on where you live or are willing to travel to, there’s a con for you!
