3 Top Examples of Inclusivity in Anime Posted Feb 25, 2022
Over the past few years, inclusivity has become a hot topic in the world of movies, televisions, and books. Considering that there are currently 48.9 million people in the USA alone living with some degree of disability, inclusivity and adequate representation should undoubtedly be a top priority.A concerted effort is especially being made to make anime more inclusive by creating an increasing number of characters sporting disabilities of their own. Let’s have a look at some of these characters.
Fujitora is Not Defined by his Blindness
Anime characters with vision-related disabilities have become increasingly common. Fans of One Piece will know Fujitora (who also goes by the name Issho) as a virtuous man who has dedicated his life to doing good. He is an admiral in the marines and also an expert in Observational Haki. Although he is completely blind, Fujitora does not allow his disability to define him. Instead, he sees it as a blessing as it prevents him from being able to see all the evil that surrounds him. Fujitora is not the only popular anime character that is blind. Others include The Sword Maiden from Goblin Slayer, Tousen Kaname from Bleach, and Hunter X Hunter’s Komugi.
Ayase Shinomiya Embraces her Wheelchair
At present, there are approximately 2.7 million wheelchair users over the age of 15 in the USA. Online communities such as cpfamilynetwork.org have been providing incredible support and invaluable resources to the loved ones of individuals living with cerebral palsy which is just one of many causes of wheelchair use in the country. For wheelchair users themselves, seeing their disability being represented in anime can be a great morale booster. Ayase Shinomiya, one of the protagonists of Guilty Crown, is one of a growing number of wheelchair-bound characters. Although she spends all her waking hours in her wheelchair, Ayase does not want to be pitied for it and states that her disability is the one thing that makes her unique. She might only be an anime character, but such a positive attitude is definitely an inspiration.
Shouko Deals Well with her Deafness
A Silent Voice is an iconic anime that highlights the mistreatment children with disabilities often face in society. Shouko, the female lead, was born deaf, and often finds herself the victim of bullying at school. In an attempt to deal with the abuse, Shouko becomes increasingly introverted and depressed, and even considers suicide at one stage. She is a fighter, however, and manages to lead a mostly normal life otherwise. Despite being Kyoto Animation’s most emotional anime feature film, the movie does have a happy ending, giving hope to countless anime fans living with hearing impairments and other disabilities themselves.
Inclusiveness is of extreme importance to the disabled community as it enables individuals with disabilities to participate in society without facing numerous barriers. Anime characters with disabilities not only make fans living with their own disabilities feel worthy but also provide valuable insight to able-bodied viewers as well.
