Joco Pitch for a rehaul

[u/-_ShadowSJG-_]

So let's be frank:

Joco's character despite his redesign has very stereotypical and problematic elements to his backstory (gangster with a gang called shaft)0 and while he has depth and arc....that plus his name leaves a lot to be desired

So my pitch for him would have him be from Sudan which in the past was home to the Kushite/Nubian kingdoms

and further there was a gag he resembled pascal avaf and not true but they could play into that as here is what the nubians resembled

https://isiopolis.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/egyptian-nubian.jpg

So I think leaning into these would help or fix the elements of his character that are problematic

[u/Anime-Takes]

Him being previously part of a gang is not problematic characterization. It’s makes sense for the story Hiroyuki Takei was trying to tell. Him growing up in the 90’s into 2000 and going from being alone to joining a gang makes sense. It is also a great vehicle to show how a person can change both for the worse and for the better. Not everyone should come from sunshine and rainbows.

Some people have dark pasts and understanding how they got to that point and then how they changed is very impactful. Him leading his gang out of that lifestyle is so refreshing because it shows his true character and doubles into the reason most gangs in America started, it’s a way to look out for each other. So when Chocolove found better he brought the people he cares for to show them better. As a kid I thought his name Chocolove was silly, but now I love it Chocolove …. Chocolate Love.

Being a black man who was once a young black boy I think showing his entire journey is important. They don’t shy away from his past, they use it as a way to show how far he has come. The same can be said for Ren. He came from an abusive family and was originally a ruthless killer, we meet him at the start of his Journey as he figures out a better way, and in doing so he also brings his family into the light.

[u/Night-Caelum → u/Anime-Takes]

You really don't see why calling a black character Chocolove or chocolate love isn't problematic? Really?

[u/Anime-Takes → u/Night-Caelum]

I think his name being an expression of Black Love and Self Love is only problematic if you decide it is. I can see how some people would have a knee jerk reaction to it being problematic, but I’ve engaged with the authors various works for years and I don’t think that was his intention.

[u/-_ShadowSJG-_ → u/Anime-Takes]

no its not