The costumes, the atmosphere, the activities,… A comic con is a paradise for a fan of movies, series, games & comics, with tons of photo opportunities. But staying mindful in this realm is important.
Always remember: every cosplayer is just a person with their own feelings, wishes and boundaries, who just happens to wear a costume.
Kindly go through these ground rules for interactions with cosplayers and other FACTS fans: the #CosplayIsNotConsent guidelines. They help to create a great, care-free time for everyone. Let’s get started!
Safe Harbor Coordinator
We prioritize the safety of all visitors. Sensing trouble or feeling threatened during the event?
Then alert our Safe Harbor Coordinator with this number:
+32 (0)474/84.68.21
Save this number in your phone for quick access.
Our team will provide assistance ASAP, including contacting law enforcement, providing escort or offering a safe space to anyone who is uncomfortable or experiencing harassment. The Guardians team is always quick to apprehend the culprits, too.
Bad things don’t happen often at FACTS, but when they do, we’re here for you.
FACTS' Cosplay Guidelines: do's and don'ts
Photo sniping
Don’t just go taking pictures from a distance without the permission of the cosplayer. It’s not a very polite thing to do. Wait your turn and ask for consent. Besides, if you allow them to strike a cool pose, the picture will be infinitely better anyway!
Imposing
No means no. If a cosplayer is not in the mood for a picture, then don’t keep asking. Maybe later! Also, not all cosplayers come to the show for pictures. Some just want to enjoy the comic con in costume without being bothered. And that’s OK too.
No Touchy-Touchy
Always respect a cosplayer’s personal space. You probably won’t appreciate having a total stranger wrapping an arm around you without consent. And neither do cosplayers. Plus, inappropriate touching will always be punished by security.
Prop Fondling
Cosplayers have worked weeks or months on a costume, sword, bow, axe or other prop. So don’t just go taking or touching it without permission. Admire the craftsmanship, but be considerate!
Inappropriate photos
Please don’t take cosplay photos that are inappropriate or catch the cosplayer in a weird moment. If cosplayers are eating, doing an activity or taking a rest, let them be and come back later. The picture will not be worth it when they’re not at their best anyway.
Don't judge
Don’t crush the confidence or spoil the fun of a cosplayer. If you don’t like the costume, then keep that opinion to yourself. Many cosplayers start out with just a bit of courage and a lot of effort, and grow every edition. So be supportive and help create a safe environment in which new talents can bloom!
Don't hate, educate!
With the geeky universes becoming more and more mainstream, we welcome new recruits to the fandom legion every edition. They may or may not be knowledgeable in the field of cosplay. But that is not always ill will.
So let’s not hate, but educate! Spread the word, talk to the newbies and make sure that they’re aware.
FACTS has always fought hard to maintain a respectful and safe environment for cosplayers with tons of campaigns (see below), and you can help maintain that!
