RACISM AND MISOGYNY IN THE COSPLAY COMMUNITY

intersectional analysis of comments on the Magic Phyra channel

Abstract

This paper uses the intersection of race and gender to analyze the comments on the video MY EXPOSED (and prejudice in the cosplay community) by the black digital influencer Magic Phyra. The aim is to observe how intersectional violence occurs in digital and physical spaces dedicated to the cosplay community, what the impacts are, how people who enjoy the practice cope with it, and whether or not they stay. As a theoretical framework, the concepts of cultures, representation, stereotypes, images of control, intersectionality, fan culture, and their problematization are used. As a methodology, the content of the Magic video was analyzed, as well as the 499 public comments on the videos. Six categories of analysis were created, focusing on perceptions of prejudice, racism, misogyny and sexism, skin bleaching, discouragement, and self-acceptance of cosplayers or people who want to start or return to the practice. As a result, intersectional violence is the main factor driving away or discouraging participation in the community. Many black people said they lightened their skin with make-up and photo editing, lost weight, and had surgery to fit in with the expectations of the standard characters. The low level of black representation in audiovisual media limits black people's choices, making them feel insecure when it comes to playing white or yellow characters. However, with digital influence, it's becoming common to find black cosplayers who inspire others, such as Magic Phyra, who emphasizes self-acceptance, adapting cosplay to their bodies, and that the practice should be enjoyable for everyone.