A Lesson in Proper “Con” Etiquette:
Cosplay is Not Consent!
This is where we start with the phrase “cosplay is not consent”, which is a phrase that people are seeing more and more as they attend comic book, as well as other, conventions.
The very fact that this needs to be put into words and published as a reminder to some people really starts things off with a negative tone – especially at an event where people come to celebrate and share their enthusiasm for characters and toys that make us smile and remind us of fun times in our past. Each one of us attends the GLCC to have a positive experience!
However, please know that the Great Lakes Comic Convention takes the safety and security of EVERYONE at our events seriously, and we will not tolerate any conduct which makes another person feel uncomfortable. Also, whether any action is defined as “uncomfortable” will be decided by the victim.
If you experience or see anything that may be deemed as inappropriate for the event, please notify GLCC Security.
The Great Lakes Comic Convention is a kid-friendly event, and we pride ourselves in being able to provide family-oriented programming, as well as a safe environment for everyone.
If you’re not sure how to behave, just think to yourself… what would Superman do? Superman, Wonder Woman, or Spider-Man are probably the best measures for a person’s behavior. If any of them would do it, then it’s probably acceptable since they’re all heroes. Just don’t do what Batman would do, because he can be a jerk sometimes.
All joking aside, we have decided to help out with a short list of things which we deem to be proper comic-con etiquette:
• Cosplay is not consent,
• Ask first if you would like to take someone’s picture,
• Treat others the way that you would like to be treated – the Golden Rule goes a long way!
• Please do not take pictures of artwork in Artist Alley. The artist’s creations are for sale, and that’s why they’re here, so don’t rudely take a picture of their artwork just to avoid purchasing it;
• Be patient. The event floor can get crowded and lines can form since everyone wants to meet and talk with our guests. Just smile and relax, and remember that it’s probably -10 outside since this is Michigan in February. Be happy you’re indoors and warm.
• Don’t steal. If it’s not yours, don’t take it!
• Remember. We’re all here to have fun. No one came to the GLCC today to ruin their day or anyone else’s,
• And, lastly, in case we weren’t clear enough… cosplay is not consent!
If you have any questions about the above rules, or if anything is unclear to you, please feel free to talk with any GLCC staff.
Thank you, and we hope that you enjoy your experience at the Great Lakes Comic-Con!
