AfroCon: A Growing Haven for Blerds Seeking Community
Discovering a sense of belonging can be a challenge, especially when your interests are considered niche or unconventional within your community. AfroCon, an event celebrating Black nerd culture, provides a much-needed space for individuals to connect over shared passions in anime, games, and comics.
Cardwell, a recent attendee, was introduced to AfroCon by his sister-in-law. He expressed how the event addresses the lack of community he felt growing up, particularly among fellow blerds—Black nerds—who share his love for “nerdy shop”. AfroCon, according to Cardwell, fulfills this need.
“It’s that space,” Cardwell remarked. “Being able to express myself about anime and games and comics and everything and not have to be judged, and also being able to explain that and get other people’s feedback.”
The event featured several rows of tables hosting local artists and vendors. Among them was Michael Clark, showcasing a variety of crocheted items, including an eye-catching large taco pillow. Although this was Clark’s fourth time at AfroCon, her journey as a blerd began much earlier.
Reflecting on her experiences, Clark noted, “I think it was more difficult growing up to be a blerd, because on one hand, all my white friends are like, ‘yeah, we all love this media, we love these games.’ And then in Black communities it’s like, ‘oh no, she’s doing white stuff.’” She highlighted the challenge of code-switching between these communities.
