5 Ways to Help Stop Bullying in the Cosplay Community

Cosplay is a place of creativity, self-expression, and escape. For many, it’s an outlet to embrace their passions and a community where they can feel understood. For me, cosplay has been a vital part of my healing journey, providing comfort and an escape from the shadows of PTSD that followed me home from military service. But over time, I’ve learned that even in these spaces meant for acceptance and celebration, bullying is a real issue—one that often goes unnoticed or unspoken.

Unfortunately, many in the cosplay community have experienced the darker side of fandom: hurtful rumors, exclusion from events, and harassment from others. It’s not just a problem for younger cosplayers—it affects everyone, regardless of age, race, or gender. It’s something that needs to be addressed because bullying has no place in a community that thrives on collaboration and kindness.

Here are five ways we can all take action to stop bullying in the cosplay community and create a more welcoming space for everyone:

1. Speak Up When You See Something Wrong

The first step in addressing bullying is recognizing it—and that means speaking out when you see it happening. Whether it’s online or in person, if you witness bullying, don’t stay silent. You don’t need to get involved in arguments or escalate the situation, but a simple “That’s not okay” can make a world of difference. By speaking up, you’re showing that bullying is not tolerated in the cosplay community, and you’re setting an example for others to follow.

2. Be Supportive—Reach Out to Those Who Are Bullied

If you know someone who’s being targeted, don’t just stand by. Reach out to them. Sometimes, people who are bullied feel isolated or afraid to speak out. A kind word, a message of support, or even just sitting with someone at a con or event can provide a sense of safety and belonging. If someone feels alone, they might be more likely to give up on something they love. We need to remind each other that we’re not alone in this. Whether they are facing ridicule for their costume choice, race, or body type, letting them know you stand with them can make all the difference.

3. Create Safe, Inclusive Spaces—Both Online and Offline

We all have a role to play in creating environments where bullying isn’t welcome. This means being intentional about the spaces we create, both in person and online. For instance, when attending or hosting events, be mindful of who is invited and how inclusive the atmosphere is. If you run social media pages or Discord servers, make it clear that bullying, hate speech, or exclusion will not be tolerated. Building a positive culture of respect starts with us.

4. Encourage Communication—Let People Work Things Out Privately

Sometimes, bullying arises from misunderstandings or miscommunications. If you know of a conflict between two people, encourage them to talk it out privately rather than airing their grievances in front of others. Remind them that it’s okay to disagree but that respect is key to resolving any issues. Private conversations help prevent rumors from spreading and give both sides a chance to be heard. It’s important that everyone feels safe to express themselves without fear of being publicly shamed or ostracized.

5. Remember, Cosplay is About Escaping, Not Enforcing Norms

Cosplay should be a sanctuary—a place where people can escape from the pressures of the real world and simply be who they want to be. Whether you’re a newbie learning how to sew or a seasoned veteran with a closet full of costumes, everyone is there for the same reason: to enjoy the craft, the community, and the joy of transformation. Let’s remind ourselves and each other that the beauty of cosplay lies in its diversity. There’s no “right” way to cosplay. No one should be told they’re “not good enough” to participate. We all come from different walks of life, and that’s what makes our community stronger.

Final Thoughts: Let’s Be the Change We Want to See

Cosplay is meant to be a space of celebration, not division. Unfortunately, bullying happens, and it happens to people of all ages and backgrounds. But as a community, we have the power to stop it. We can choose kindness over cruelty, inclusion over exclusion, and support over silence.

If you’ve been bullied or made to feel unwelcome, remember—you are valid, and your love for cosplay is powerful. Don’t let the negativity of others rob you of something that brings you joy. If you see bullying happening, take action. It’s not enough to simply ignore it. We need to show that the cosplay community is a safe place for everyone—regardless of who they are, what they wear, or where they come from.

Together, we can make cosplay a place where everyone can feel seen, heard, and appreciated. Let’s work to stop the bullying and create an environment where we all can thrive.