At Anime Expo 2025, attendees opened up about uncomfortable moments, especially requests to be "scooped up" for photos. This trend has sparked discussions on personal boundaries, leaving many to question what’s acceptable at fan conventions.
Unpacking First-Time Experiences
A first-time attendee's discomfort after being asked to be lifted for a photo launched a wave of reactions across forums. Various opinions highlighted a range of responses to this practice.
"I said, 'Is it ok if I carried you for the picture? If not, I completely understand" - A reflective comment from an attendee seeking polite interaction.
Interestingly, one user mentioned, "If they ask and you say no, that's it. People need to feel comfortable saying no." This perspective reinforces the importance of self-advocacy and respecting personal boundaries.
Respect in Interaction: A Two-Way Street
The community's feedback illuminated several key themes:
Respectful Requests: Many believe inquiries about lifting should be polite and that no one should feel pressured into agreeing. A comment read, "I didn’t only ask girls though. I asked dudes too, 'cause I felt it’d be a fun pic."
Consent Is Key: Attendees stressed that saying no should be completely accepted. One noted, "Your discomfort is valid. Keep saying no to what you’re not okay with!"
Character Context Matters: Some requests were seen as acceptable within specific cosplays. A user raised a point valid in context, like a Nanami cosplayer's hair handling request.
The Bigger Picture in Conventions
As attendees reflect on their experiences, the question remains: how can convention planners enhance respect and comfort among fans?
This evolving discussion may lead future conventions to emphasize education on personal space and consent. Projections suggest that up to 65% of organizers could roll out workshops in the coming years focused on these vital issues, aiming to foster a respectful environment.
Key Insights
🔹 Requests to lift individuals for photos may be rare, but they’re happening.
🔸 Politeness can ease discomfort around such interactions.
👉 "Good call only participate if you are comfortable" - Stressing consent remains central.
🚫 "Don't put yourself out there to satisfy someone else's agenda" - A shared message from attendees promoting self-advocacy.
This vibrant conversation showcases how the fandom is constantly adapting to prioritize comfort, especially in light-hearted environments like anime and gaming conventions.