Blerdcon: DMV Black Cosplayer’s safe space

  For its 7^th year, Blerdcon, an annual black nerd convention founded by Hilton George and the late Hassan Parrish, returns to Arlington, Virginia, at the Hyatt Crystal City Hotel. BLERDCon promotes representation, inclusion, and empowerment within the nerd community. The convention was established with the goal of providing a dedicated space for black nerds and highlighting the contributions and experiences of black individuals within nerd culture.

Blerdcon welcomes several notable celebrities from comics, entertainment, and gaming as special guests such as this year’s guests Cree Summers, Rachel True, and Karen White to engage with fans during meet-and-greets and answer questions during panel talks.

Cosplay, the art of dressing up as fictional characters, significantly impacts the black community. It serves as a powerful tool for self-expression, representation, and fostering a sense of belonging. By embodying beloved characters, black cosplayers challenge stereotypes and showcase their creativity, skills, and passion for geek culture.

Cosplay allows black individuals to portray characters they may not typically see represented as in mainstream media. This form of representation is crucial in promoting diversity and breaking down barriers within the nerd community. Black cosplayers inspire and empower others, particularly young black fans, by demonstrating that they can fully embrace their favorite characters and engage in the geek culture they love.

Cosplay also provides a platform for black creators to showcase their craftsmanship and talent. From designing intricate costumes to mastering makeup and prop-building techniques, black cosplayers contribute their unique skills and perspectives to the cosplay community, enriching it with their creativity.

Over the years, BLERDCon has become popular by attracting attendees across the United States and internationally. The convention features a variety of programming, including panels, workshops, gaming tournaments, cosplay contests, and an exhibition hall where artists and vendors showcase their work. This three-day event provides a space for black nerds, or “blerds,” to gather and engage in various activities such as panel discussions, cosplay, gaming, and workshops.

Nick, a First Year Volunteer staff member at Blerdcon, shares how black cosplay impacts the community in a positive way.

“What you get to see is a lot of people who enjoy the different anime characters get the dress up and not have to feel like, okay, I don’t look exactly like them, can still come out there and represent, and people will still embrace someone that just loves the anime and the culture in itself and not feel rejected by other people.”

Jared Fauntroy, Owner of Fauntroy Comics, stated, “This is probably the warmest one I’ve ever been to because it seems like a party the entire time. The love is so well reciprocated, and I never want not to be here”

BLERDCon continues to serve as an important platform for promoting black nerd culture and providing opportunities for networking, collaboration, and empowerment. It has become a significant event within the geek community, fostering a sense of community and celebration for blerds of all ages and backgrounds.