What It Means To Be a Blerd

For a long time, nerd culture in America felt like it belonged to everyone but us. Growing up, being into anime, video games, comics, or fantasy often meant hiding a part of yourself if you were Black. It was something we loved, but also something we protected — because loving it out loud could make you a target for jokes, bullying, or being labeled as "different." For many of us, being a nerd was synonymous with being other, even within our own communities.

But even in silence, our connection to these stories ran deep. When we watched Shonen anime — shows built around themes of struggle, perseverance, resilience, and rising against overwhelming odds — it spoke to something real inside us. The battles fought by heroes like Luffy, Naruto, Goku, Ichigo, and so many others mirrored the very real battles we face every day navigating a world full of obstacles not built for us. Their dreams, their fights, their need to prove their worth — it was never just fantasy. It was reflection.

Today, things are changing. Blerd culture is rising — and it’s beautiful to witness. What was once hidden is now proudly celebrated. From Blerd conventions and cosplay showcases to Black-centered anime, manga, gaming channels, and indie publishers, the Blerd community is showing the world that we belong here — and always have. We are storytellers, creators, innovators, and passionate fans pushing the culture forward.

Even better, Blerd culture is welcoming. It creates instant connections built not just on fandom, but on deep, shared experiences. When you find another Blerd, you’re not just finding someone who likes the same shows or games — you’re finding someone who understands the feeling of finding pieces of yourself in stories that the world once told you weren’t for you.

And this? This is only the beginning. The Blerd Blog is here to celebrate it — to uplift it — and to build a future where Black nerd culture isn’t just part of the conversation, it leads it. Also, join our email list and stay tapped in to The Blerd Blog for more takes that celebrate anime and manga through a Blerd lens. 

Stay tuned. The best is yet to come.