A New Space for Black and Brown Women in the Anime World
Megan Thee Stallion’s love for anime and Japanese media has opened up new possibilities for Black women to embrace their unique interests without feeling ashamed. What was once seen as “nerdy” is now celebrated, creating a supportive community where individuals can connect over shared passions. This shift has led to an increase in Black and brown women who are deeply involved in anime and manga, making up a significant portion of the global fanbase.
Brittney Johnson, a product designer, recognized this growing interest and decided to step away from her corporate career to launch Hot Girls Read Manga, a digital platform that supports her pop-up bookstore Casita Manga. The initiative aims to create a safe space for those who enjoy Japanese comics and anime, fostering a sense of belonging and connection.
Growing Up with Japanese Culture
Johnson’s journey into Japanese media began during her childhood, influenced by her great-grandfather’s wife, Kimi, who introduced her to a rich cultural heritage. This early exposure shaped her identity and deepened her love for manga and anime. As she returned to her roots, she realized the importance of having a dedicated space for women of color who share these interests.
Hot Girls Read Manga is not just a bookstore; it's a passion project that highlights the need for communities where individuals can feel comfortable and supported. Johnson built this space brick by brick, addressing the lack of representation and inclusivity in the industry.
The Inception of Hot Girls Read Manga
Johnson recalls how her love for anime and manga has been a constant presence in her life. From playing Pokémon games to watching shows and reading books, this media has always been a part of her. She felt a strong connection when she reconnected with her passion, which brought her immense joy and fulfillment.
In her corporate job, she felt disconnected from her true self, as the e-commerce world often seemed superficial. However, when she engaged with others who shared her interests, she felt alive and inspired. This realization led her to think about the experience of adult women shopping for manga in physical stores, which can be uncomfortable due to the male-dominated environment.
Johnson wanted to create a welcoming space for everyone, including girls, gays, and all other identities. She noticed that kids today are no longer bullied for their interests, and this change is incredibly positive. Her vision was to build a beautiful bookshop that caters to all, making it accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
Japanese Media in Latino Culture
Japanese media has long been popular within Latino culture, even if it's not always acknowledged. For example, Dragon Ball Z is considered a religion in Latin America, with many people growing up watching it. Johnson learned that even the older generations in Central America had access to Japanese anime series, which paved the way for shows like Naruto.
This cultural blend resonates deeply with Johnson, as she meets other Latinos who share similar childhood memories. Her fiancé, for instance, grew up in Venezuela and remembers watching Dragon Ball Zeta. This cross-cultural appreciation highlights the universal appeal of Japanese media.
Why a Space Like Casita Manga Matters
For Black and brown individuals, having a space like Casita Manga is essential. Johnson points to the success of creators of color who validate the need for more inclusive spaces. One such creator is KofiManga, an African American artist who studied in Japan and now teaches manga. Another is Jordan Bentley, who blends fashion with anime to create a clothing brand called HYPLAND.
Black women have been the biggest supporters of Johnson's work, showing immense enthusiasm and a desire for connection. Johnson has also connected with Gigi Murakami, a Brooklyn-based Black woman who has broken into the horror manga space. These connections reinforce the importance of creating platforms that celebrate diverse voices.
Advice for Newcomers to the Manga World
For those hesitant to explore manga, Johnson offers encouraging advice. She shares that one of her earliest TikTok videos explained how to read manga, which is done from right to left. This simple tip continues to resonate with viewers, indicating a growing interest in the medium.
Johnson recommends exploring manga based on personal interests, noting the overlap between mainstream media and anime themes. She emphasizes the unique storytelling and visual artistry that make manga and anime stand out, offering a 5D experience that doesn’t compromise on plot or enjoyment.
How to Support Casita Manga
Currently, Casita Manga operates through pop-ups at market festivals in New York, allowing for community engagement before establishing a permanent location. Johnson encourages people to check out Hot Girls Read Manga for updates on events and to support the initiative. By connecting with the community, she hopes to build a lasting space that celebrates the beauty of Japanese media.
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