Convention Etiquette: Discussion and Advice on Do's and Don'ts

[BruTak]

News from MCM Scotland in Glasgow.

Apparently one Derek Hartley AKA Del Hart - convicted of possessing child pornography, spent 12 months in jail for it. Subsequently banned from any and all events in Scotland - has been sighted at the SECC.

[BruTak]

UPDATE: The person in question was Derek Hartley. Event security were notified of his presence, and he was escorted from the premises.

[WraithRichard]

They even have entire articles about it: Cosplay is Not Consent: How to Make Your Con or Expo Harassment-Free

Krakencon hands out pamphlets about that (and photo etiquette) to all members. Sadly, I just went to the last one.

[BruTak]

Does anyone in the UK have any feedback for cons run by Millennium Events?

[Falcon Horus]

Krakencon hands out pamphlets about that (and photo etiquette) to all members. Sadly, I just went to the last one.

Same with FACTS at Ghent. Pamphlets and posters, and they have an Harrassment point where you can file complaints, and where there are police officers even to escort people out.

[WraithRichard]

Same with FACTS at Ghent. Pamphlets and posters, and they have an Harrassment point where you can file complaints, and where there are police officers even to escort people out.

Unfortunately, cons can't do anything if you go outside to eat or chill. Stay safe people and don't underestimate weirdos.

[BruTak]

News from Glasgow's anime and manga convention, Rai-Con.

SECURITY NOTICE

Please be aware that the security and safety for all those present at our events is a top priority. Due to recent events and concerns raised we are now adopting a NO REMOVAL, NO ENTRY policy on cosplay themed masks, helmets and headgear which covers facial identifying features. This only applies upon entry to the event and venue and requests for this is at the discretion of our staff. As always, spot checks and bag checks will continue to be carried out as per venue's security staff's discretion. Any queries about this can be directed via message to our Facebook page. Thank you for your cooperation on this matter.

[ScifigirlSG]

After the cosplay fiasco at the Phoenix Comicon 2017 convention(now Phoenix Fan Fusion), the organizers had to hire a security company that uses TSA/airport style screening. Inside and outside the convention center, cameras are everywhere. This new company(same one used by Phoenix Zoo for black tie/formal events) was used at the 2018 convention, and IMO scared off people who wanted to attend, including newbies, and weren't aware of the new security policy.

[Falcon Horus]

Unfortunately, cons can't do anything if you go outside to eat or chill. Stay safe people and don't underestimate weirdos.

There's only the IKEA and they are quite accommodating when it comes to cosplayers coming for food when the convention is happening. Much amusement.

...NO REMOVAL, NO ENTRY policy on cosplay themed masks, helmets and headgear which covers facial identifying features.

Has been a rule since as long as I can remember. The weapon's rule is literally younger than this rule.

[WraithRichard]

There's only the IKEA and they are quite accommodating when it comes to cosplayers coming for food when the convention is happening. Much amusement.

That's pretty comforting. I got a lot of skeevy looks when I went outside of Krakencon.

After the cosplay fiasco at the Phoenix Comicon 2017 convention(now Phoenix Fan Fusion), the organizers had to hire a security company that uses TSA/airport style screening. Inside and outside the convention center, cameras are everywhere. This new company(same one used by Phoenix Zoo for black tie/formal events) was used at the 2018 convention, and IMO scared off people who wanted to attend, including newbies, and weren't aware of the new security policy.

That'd scare me a way and I've been doing cons before I could vote. I do NOT want to be frisked, manhandled, or made to take off my belt (which was functional) in public again. TSA also made me go barefoot for an enfitrethree hours.

Hard NO.

[BruTak]

47512122142_f6eb165e0b_q.jpg
S.H.I.E.L.D. never sleeps. Although it sometimes does take a nap.

Edinburgh Comic Con 2019, day 2, Sunday 7th April - photo by Philip Gillespie.

https://flic.kr/s/aHskTBynFA

[ScifigirlSG]

More rules for Phoenix Fan Fusion 2019:

1. Bring items in clear plastic bag or backpack for speedy process through security
2. No outside food allowed in main(North) Convention Center or West convention center(there are 3 convention centers~West, North,South)

[ScifigirlSG]

So many people don't use the internet for convention info. Posted on Twitter by Phoenix Fan Fusion. "Open liquid containers are not allowed inside the Phoenix Convention Center. Refillable water bottles ARE allowed but they must be empty."

My guess Security was busy today on the first day.

[BruTak]

Oh, don't start me.

We live in an age where we have information at our fingertips, and yet all we seem to see is "Where can I get X for my cosplay?" or "When are tickets for X event out?" etc.

It takes all my self control not to reply "I dunno, I'm not effing Google."

[BruTak]

Seeing reports on Facebook that an attendee at MCM London has committed suicide by jumping off a bridge into the Thames.

Can anyone confirm or deny?

[Falcon Horus]

More rules for Phoenix Fan Fusion 2019:

1. Bring items in clear plastic bag or backpack for speedy process through security
2. No outside food allowed in main(North) Convention Center or West convention center(there are 3 convention centers~West, North,South)

Sounds like the standard rules for FACTS Convention in Ghent.

Seeing reports on Facebook that an attendee at MCM London has committed suicide by jumping off a bridge into the Thames.

Can anyone confirm or deny?

Nothing on Google.

[BruTak]

From what I've learned, it seems as though it was an attempted suicide, the party in question was talked down by their friends, was given the once over by ambulance paramedics, and is now seeking counselling.

[Falcon Horus]

That's positive to hear.

[BruTak]

On the other hand, I read several FB posts fro young female cosplayers who were repeatedly hassled by the same guy.

So it seems security was a bit hit and miss.

[Falcon Horus]

On the other hand, I read several FB posts fro young female cosplayers who were repeatedly hassled by the same guy.

So it seems security was a bit hit and miss.

If it gets reported, they usually ban the assailant from coming back.
At the convention I go to regularly, they even call in the cops.