There is so much discourse these days around the creators of art and boycotting their art as to not support their beliefs. I completely understand this but what I don't get is boycotting something that clearly had more than just the artist involved. It's important to understand how boycotting something affects everyone who helped create it, especially those who are trying to survive.
I think many people forget that when you are trying to survive and keep food on the table, it overtakes your freedom of choice. I understand that some people can choose not to be involved with something that has ties to a creator with terrible beliefs, views and is actively trying to infringe on the rights of others. But not everyone has that freedom of choice. And not everyone is able to exercise that kind of choice in EVERY aspect of their life.
It's easy to judge when we aren't on that side.
The other aspect to add to this when talking about art that was released and became influential to an entire generation BEFORE the creators views came into the wider public, is that it holds a place in people's hearts even if the creator is not a good person.
Some of the things I grew up with and had a big influence on me were created by people who aren't good people and it sucks so bad. But at the time, there wasn't such a wide platform for their views to be shared so I experienced the art in the vacuum of my own home, friends and community.
Seeing something that had such an influence over a generation coming back up and getting another go around is exciting for those who grew up with it. Many of us who enjoy art don't share the views of the creator but asking someone to boycott something that is so special to them is really hard.
If someone chooses not to boycott something that you do, try to approach it with understanding rather than hatred and malice. You can choose not to interact with that person and that is fine, but don't vilify them. You can always talk to someone about it with maturity and speak openly about your views as well as theirs. Just because someone chooses to engage in something that has ties to a questionable person, it does not make them a horrible person too.
And again, I understand that creators will make money off of anything to do with their art. But remember it goes further than them and there are so many more people involved.
This is also where fandoms come in. Because you can love the world someone created, you can love the fantasy that was created and still not like who created it. I love seeing people change what was problematic and make it inclusive. That's the power we have in fandoms, to celebrate what is great about the art, change what isn't acceptable and inclusive and continue to provide a safe space for people who are interested in the art.
If, even after reading this, you still are angry at me or others engaging in art you are boycotting, that is completely fine. You may choose not to interact with me if you currently do and I'm not going to be upset or angry about that. Everyone is free to approach these situations how they choose.
