Anime Matsuri "Stands With Vic"

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Submitted by RJ Carter on Fri, 03/08/2019 - 21:38

If you're even slightly aware of anime and have a social media account, you've no doubt seen the hashtags #KickVic, #IStandWithVic, and #VicKicksBack. The hashtag battles refer to the allegations against popular voice actor, Vic Mignogna, whose work is front-and-center in the recent release, DRAGON BALL SUPER: BROLY, as well as a former regular on the anime series, RWBY.

While the allegations of sexual misconduct are as yet unproven, and despite Mignogna's denials and mounted legal challenge to the allegations, production companies Funimation and Rooster Teeth have both dropped Mignogna from their studio work, and conventions scrambled to distance themselves from even discussing the controversy -- some to embarrassing extremes.

One convention in Houston, Texas, however, is not shying away from having the voice actor as a guest. Anime Matsuri, is choosing to Stand With Vic, holding to the maxim that a man is innocent until proven guilty.

Working with special correspondent and YouTube personality, That Umbrella Guy, Critical Blast arranged a livestream interview with Anime Matsuri's organizer, DeNeice Leigh, to discuss why the convention chose to fight the current, and what special steps they are taking to ensure a safe and friendly convention for everyone who loves anime.