“Cons are, in my experience, a great place to start anti-racist and anti-sexist work”: An Interview With Diva Williams

I never could have imagined that my perspectives, beliefs, and world views would be broadened and challenged when I landed in Boston one cold, dreary March evening. That weekend of Anime Boston 2016, opened my world beyond just fantasy and cartoons, but also to interpersonal and intersectional ideas of race, gender, sexuality, and ability, and how nerd and geek culture emanates or displays these themes and concepts. In part, it is because of my interaction with Diva, the panel creator of ‘Black Nerds Matter: The Intersection of Race and Otaku Culture.’ Her panel opened up a lively discussion at one of the largest anime conventions on the East Coast. The room was filled with fellow nerds, intently listening to Diva’s questions, challenges, and thought-proving insight on racial barriers within the convention community. I had the opportunity to ask her a few questions, so please enjoy! Diva WilliamsAge: 28Occupation: Barista and aspiring academicBlack Nerd Problems: Would you rather live in the Star Wars universe or the Cowboy Bebop universe? Diva Williams: I would choose the Cowboy Bebop universe hands down. Every anime nerd has that one show that defined the trajectory of their life, and for me, Cowboy Bebop is it. It’s a world I’ve always wanted to live in. It’s gritty and complex and real. I grew up with Star Wars, but it’s more of a grand legend than a place I’d actually like to be. BNP: Please tell us a bit about yourself! Diva: I have a Bachelor’s degree in English and I …