Hello, my name is Alex and before I start speaking my mind about the Natlan (&Sumeru) situation, I want you to know that I'm a white Italian and for that my opinion on racism will always be less important that POC opinions. Also, I'm aware that my anger is nothing compared to the anger and suffering of the minorities that are being misrepresented, but if I don't talk then I would be complicit in the racism that's spreading online.
I'm angry because I'm seeing white people talking about "forcing diversity" and removing "representation" from white people (geez, that's cringe bro). I've also seen really racist offences on every app I'm in.
To all these people: fuck you. We are the most privileged and represented group on this motherfucking planet, everything is about us.
Also, it's not forced diversity, they are using non-white cultures but refuse to properly represent them. This is cultural appropriation.
We stole everything from these cultures: their lands, their freedoms and now we still steal from them. And then we have the audacity to ignore their existence, because god forbid something is not for white people.
You are all quick to complain if there's a black protagonist in a game about Japan, even if he is an historical figure, because the reality is that you are racist, plain and simple. And if you think you are not, you probably can't understand your privilege and the fact that every one of us has been raised in a racist society, and we should listen and learn from others experiences. But noooo, you're all complaining because...what? Why does melanin bother you so much? Get over yourselves. You are trying to silence people, the same thing that we have done to them for hundreds of years. They are tired and they are fucking right to feel like this.
Also, saying that entire countries (Japan, China) are racist is generalising and, considering what's happening with racisms in a lot of weastern countries, we should stop infantilizing another country and start seeing how our governments are enforcing racist behaviours.
My personal story is different, but I know for a fact that if someone creates something with an all POC cast, you will be screaming and having a tantrum because you hate not being the center of attention. Why do I know that? Because it happened in my community with queer creators, where straight people complain if there's an all queer cast. Privileged people H A T E when something is not about them.
To all of the beautiful people who are fighting for their right to be represented correctly: you are incredible, strong and you deserve respect. And I'm deeply sorry for what you're going through.
(Sorry if my English isn't perfect)