seen from Türkiye
seen from United States
seen from Argentina
seen from Russia
seen from Türkiye
seen from Germany
seen from Ukraine
seen from Türkiye
seen from United States
seen from United States
seen from Ukraine
seen from United States
seen from United States
seen from Poland
seen from Brazil
seen from Ukraine
seen from Türkiye
seen from United States
seen from United States
seen from Oman
Let's see if they don't cancel it here because of copyright.
Anyway. I've had a busy day.
But Mako⚡🖤 appreciation post.
Mako 🔥 ⚡
Ok ily
Mako and implicit classism/racism on the part of the fandom.
Part l: Problem statement.
This is a topic that is currently being professionally researched for execution in thesis format.
Okay, this gives me the opportunity to touch on this topic (which in itself, is a sensitive one) and break it down with more depth and critical analysis.
I want to make it clear that this is all a personal opinion due to all the experience I've had with the fandom over the past few years.
By all accounts, Mako is a character that generates polarized reactions in the fandom, and while some of the intensified hatred is mostly exaggeratedly attributed to her romantic arc (such as her decisions in the love triangle with Korra and Asami). But in this case, there are elements that make me think that some of the hatred may be classism and racism towards his identity as a working-class mixed-race Asian.
All of this started hanging around my house since Mako's comic book announcement three years ago. It's no secret to anyone that the incitement of hatred towards Mako comes from the most toxic network humanity could have; I'm talking about X formerly titled (Twitter).
During the announcement of the Mako comic I unfortunately witnessed some users posting the following text: "nobody wants this redneck and mongrel from the street" at that moment when I read that, I said to myself: "oh my.... Was it really necessary to say that?". Obviously I've seen all kinds of slanderous and horrible things being heaped on Mako for years, from labeling him a "manipulator" to a "womanizer". but at the time, I hadn't heard anything as extreme as that. I tried again to get the threads on X but at the moment I couldn't find them.
But back to the initial point, they were the first signs to think and confirm that the fandom is racist and classist with several of its characters. But I want to focus mainly on Mako.
But to explain this, you have to break this down in parts:
1.1 Mako as a mixed-race character in the Avatar universe.
In tlok, Mako is a mixed-race character with roots in the Fire Nation (Japanese culturally inspired) and the Earth Kingdom (Chinese culturally inspired). This mixture positions him as a figure of intersection in a world where national identities are often clearly defined (Water, Earth, Fire, Air). His miscegenation is explicit in the narrative: his mother was from the Fire nation and his father from the Earth kingdom, and he and his brother Bolin inherit cultural and physical traits from both heritages.
In the context of fandom, characters of mixed race or hybrid identities often face subtle or explicit rejection, especially in Western audiences who may not be accustomed to appreciating the complexity of these identities. Mako does not fit into a "pure" cultural mold like other iconic characters in the franchise, such as Zuko (Fire Nation, royal lineage) or Katara (Water Tribe, clear cultural identity). This lack of cultural "purity" may lead some fans, consciously or unconsciously, to perceive him as less authentic or worthy of empathy.
Racism toward mixed-race characters often manifests itself in the devaluation of their narrative. In the case of Mako, his story of struggle as an orphan of humble origin does not receive the same admiration as, for example, the redemption arc of Zuko, a character of noble lineage. This may reflect a bias that privileges characters with more "defined" cultural identities or associated with high social status, while mestizos, especially those from working-class backgrounds, are marginalized.
1.2 Asian stereotypes and fandom expectations.
The Avatar universe is deeply inspired by Asian cultures, and Mako, with his design and background, reflects influences of Asian stereotypes that may influence how the fandom perceives him. As an Asian-inspired character, Mako is serious, reserved, and pragmatic, traits that might align with the stereotype of the "model Asian" (disciplined, hardworking, emotionally restrained). However, when these traits are not combined with an outgoing charisma or an "epic" narrative arc, the fandom tends to reject them.
In contrast, characters like Korra (inspired by Inuit cultures, but with a more open and heroic personality) or Bolin (who, despite sharing the same mixed-race background, is more comical and approachable) are more celebrated. The rejection of Mako may be linked to an implicit racial bias where Asian characters who do not meet specific expectations (being charismatic, tragic, or heroic in a conventional way) are judged as "boring" or "uninteresting." This phenomenon is seen in fandoms of other series, where Asian or mixed-race characters are criticized for not fitting idealized archetypes.
Furthermore, Mako does not have the privilege of an "exotic" or mystical background, like Aang (the last Airbender) or Toph (an Earth Kingdom noblewoman). His mixed-race identity and his life on the streets of Republic City make him more "ordinary" within the Avatar universe, which can lead the fandom to underestimate him, projecting racial biases that devalue characters who don't fit into narratives of exoticism or cultural purity. But surprisingly its street-level origins are more rawly realistic than usual.
1.3 Dynamics of fandom and implicit racism.
The fandom especially on platforms such as X, reddit or tumblr, has shown patterns that suggest implicit racism towards Mako. For example, criticisms towards her character often focus on her "cold" personality or her romantic mistakes, but rarely acknowledge how her mixed race and working class background shapes her decisions. This double standard is evident when compared to other characters-Korra, for example, also makes impulsive decisions in her love life, but receives more empathy from the fandom.
Mako is often described with derogatory terms such as "selfish," "boring," or "bad for Korra/Asami," while characters like Zuko, who are also flawed, are idealized for their tragic background and noble status. This contrast suggests that the fandom may be projecting racialized expectations: Asian or mixed-race characters like Mako, who do not fulfill the "tragic hero" or "redeemed prince" archetype, are more likely to be rejected.
Furthermore, his mixed race background places him in an ambiguous position within the Avatar universe, where cultural identities are often tied to membership in a specific nation. In the real world, mixed-race people, especially of Asian descent, often face microaggressions or questioning about their cultural "authenticity." In fandom, this translates into a lack of interest in exploring Mako's complexity as a character, preferring to focus on figures with "clearer" identities or more conventional narratives.
1.4 Intersection with classism.
Racism towards Mako cannot be analyzed without considering its intersection with classism. As a working-class mestizo, Mako faces a double marginalization. His need to work (as a pro-bender, guard, or detective) and his role as a provider for his brother Bolin make him a less "glamorous" character compared to Asami (an heiress) or Korra (the Avatar). In the fandom, upper-class characters or characters with mythical roles tend to be more valued, while Mako, whose narrative is anchored in survival and work, is seen as less interesting.
This bias reflects racist and classist attitudes that devalue characters representing ethnic and socioeconomic minorities. In Mako's case, his mixed-race Asian identity, combined with his working-class status, makes him an easy target for criticism that ignores the context of his life and decisions.
1.5 Additional perspective and conclusion (For the time being).
While the hatred of Mako is influenced by a somewhat implicit racism that manifests itself in the devaluing of his identity and stereotypical expectations of how an Asian character should behave. His mixed race, combined with his working class status, makes him less "palatable" to a fandom that tends to favor characters with distinct cultural identities or privileged backgrounds.
X
~
Well, this is what I have analyzed for the moment. I also want to turn this into a more elaborate and researched thesis. I also want to include other opinions from both professionals and people in fandom based on their experience. However, I want to focus on the racial and cultural biases that shape perceptions of fandom.
This was originally the answer to a question left for me a few days ago and I wanted to republish it so that the notes are stored on this platform.
However, this subject should be approached with discretion as it is a personal opinion that is still in the process of being investigated.
I will be in the process of collecting more data so there is a long way to go...
~
Warning:
As a fan of this franchise and professional it gives me the opportunity to run this hypothesis to give a logical explanation and somehow curb the senseless hate campaigns towards various characters the character of Mako.
Any encouragement, criticism, attack, opinion of the same, bias, rudeness and self-protection will be taken into account...
~
Atte: GR.
Mako Vibes Style.
Part IV
Concept - Legend of Korra.
~
Mako in real life would be a Hong Kong boy with a Chinese father and Japanese mother.
That's why I base myself on the current and cultural Vibes.
Hey, I hope this doesn’t come off the wrong way, but I was curious; why do you think the hate for Mako is because he’s Asian? From what I’ve seen, most of the criticism seems to come from the love triangle stuff. I’m open to hearing more if I’ve missed something. I hope I’m not being dismissive of your experience. ♥️
Hi, thanks for the question.
Sorry for the delay. I'm having a lot of work lately in my new schedule.
Okay, this gives me the opportunity to touch on this topic (which in itself, is a sensitive one) and break it down with more depth and critical analysis.
I want to make it clear that this is all a personal opinion due to all the experience I've had with the fandom over the past few years.
By all accounts, Mako is a character that generates polarized reactions in the fandom, and while some of the intensified hatred is mostly exaggeratedly attributed to her romantic arc (such as her decisions in the love triangle with Korra and Asami). But in this case, there are elements that make me think that some of the hatred may be classism and racism towards his identity as a working-class mixed-race Asian.
All of this started hanging around my house since Mako's comic book announcement three years ago. It's no secret to anyone that the incitement of hatred towards Mako comes from the most toxic network humanity could have; I'm talking about X formerly titled (Twitter).
During the announcement of the Mako comic I unfortunately witnessed some users posting the following text: "nobody wants this redneck and mongrel from the street" at that moment when I read that, I said to myself: "oh my.... Was it really necessary to say that?". Obviously I've seen all kinds of slanderous and horrible things being heaped on Mako for years, from labeling him a "manipulator" to a "womanizer". but at the time, I hadn't heard anything as extreme as that. I tried again to get the threads on X but at the moment I couldn't find them.
But back to the initial point, they were the first signs to think and confirm that the fandom is racist and classist with several of its characters. But I want to focus mainly on Mako.
But to explain this, you have to break this down in parts:
1.1 Mako as a mixed-race character in the Avatar universe.
In tlok, Mako is a mixed-race character with roots in the Fire Nation (Japanese culturally inspired) and the Earth Kingdom (Chinese culturally inspired). This mixture positions him as a figure of intersection in a world where national identities are often clearly defined (Water, Earth, Fire, Air). His miscegenation is explicit in the narrative: his mother was from the Fire nation and his father from the Earth kingdom, and he and his brother Bolin inherit cultural and physical traits from both heritages.
In the context of fandom, characters of mixed race or hybrid identities often face subtle or explicit rejection, especially in Western audiences who may not be accustomed to appreciating the complexity of these identities. Mako does not fit into a "pure" cultural mold like other iconic characters in the franchise, such as Zuko (Fire Nation, royal lineage) or Katara (Water Tribe, clear cultural identity). This lack of cultural "purity" may lead some fans, consciously or unconsciously, to perceive him as less authentic or worthy of empathy.
Racism toward mixed-race characters often manifests itself in the devaluation of their narrative. In the case of Mako, his story of struggle as an orphan of humble origin does not receive the same admiration as, for example, the redemption arc of Zuko, a character of noble lineage. This may reflect a bias that privileges characters with more "defined" cultural identities or associated with high social status, while mestizos, especially those from working-class backgrounds, are marginalized.
1.2 Asian stereotypes and fandom expectations.
The Avatar universe is deeply inspired by Asian cultures, and Mako, with his design and background, reflects influences of Asian stereotypes that may influence how the fandom perceives him. As an Asian-inspired character, Mako is serious, reserved, and pragmatic, traits that might align with the stereotype of the "model Asian" (disciplined, hardworking, emotionally restrained). However, when these traits are not combined with an outgoing charisma or an "epic" narrative arc, the fandom tends to reject them.
In contrast, characters like Korra (inspired by Inuit cultures, but with a more open and heroic personality) or Bolin (who, despite sharing the same mixed-race background, is more comical and approachable) are more celebrated. The rejection of Mako may be linked to an implicit racial bias where Asian characters who do not meet specific expectations (being charismatic, tragic, or heroic in a conventional way) are judged as "boring" or "uninteresting." This phenomenon is seen in fandoms of other series, where Asian or mixed-race characters are criticized for not fitting idealized archetypes.
Furthermore, Mako does not have the privilege of an "exotic" or mystical background, like Aang (the last Airbender) or Toph (an Earth Kingdom noblewoman). His mixed-race identity and his life on the streets of Republic City make him more "ordinary" within the Avatar universe, which can lead the fandom to underestimate him, projecting racial biases that devalue characters who don't fit into narratives of exoticism or cultural purity. But surprisingly its street-level origins are more rawly realistic than usual.
1.3 Dynamics of fandom and implicit racism.
The fandom especially on platforms such as X, reddit or tumblr, has shown patterns that suggest implicit racism towards Mako. For example, criticisms towards her character often focus on her "cold" personality or her romantic mistakes, but rarely acknowledge how her mixed race and working class background shapes her decisions. This double standard is evident when compared to other characters-Korra, for example, also makes impulsive decisions in her love life, but receives more empathy from the fandom.
Mako is often described with derogatory terms such as "selfish," "boring," or "bad for Korra/Asami," while characters like Zuko, who are also flawed, are idealized for their tragic background and noble status. This contrast suggests that the fandom may be projecting racialized expectations: Asian or mixed-race characters like Mako, who do not fulfill the "tragic hero" or "redeemed prince" archetype, are more likely to be rejected.
Furthermore, his mixed race background places him in an ambiguous position within the Avatar universe, where cultural identities are often tied to membership in a specific nation. In the real world, mixed-race people, especially of Asian descent, often face microaggressions or questioning about their cultural "authenticity." In fandom, this translates into a lack of interest in exploring Mako's complexity as a character, preferring to focus on figures with "clearer" identities or more conventional narratives.
1.4 Intersection with classism.
Racism towards Mako cannot be analyzed without considering its intersection with classism. As a working-class mestizo, Mako faces a double marginalization. His need to work (as a pro-bender, guard, or detective) and his role as a provider for his brother Bolin make him a less "glamorous" character compared to Asami (an heiress) or Korra (the Avatar). In the fandom, upper-class characters or characters with mythical roles tend to be more valued, while Mako, whose narrative is anchored in survival and work, is seen as less interesting.
This bias reflects racist and classist attitudes that devalue characters representing ethnic and socioeconomic minorities. In Mako's case, his mixed-race Asian identity, combined with his working-class status, makes him an easy target for criticism that ignores the context of his life and decisions.
1.5 Additional perspective and conclusion (For the time being).
While the hatred of Mako is influenced by a somewhat implicit racism that manifests itself in the devaluing of his identity and stereotypical expectations of how an Asian character should behave. His mixed race, combined with his working class status, makes him less "palatable" to a fandom that tends to favor characters with distinct cultural identities or privileged backgrounds.
X
~
Well, this is what I have analyzed for the moment. I also want to turn this into a more elaborate and researched thesis. I also want to include other opinions from both professionals and people in fandom based on their experience. However, I want to focus on the racial and cultural biases that shape perceptions of fandom.
However, this subject should be approached with discretion as it is a personal opinion that is still in the process of being investigated.
I hope I have clarified your doubt with this answer and very soon thesis study. Again a thousand apologies for the delay.
~
With nothing more to say. I bid you farewell...
Best regards!
