For these San Diegans, being a superhero isn’t just a Comic-Con affair. It’s all year long.
Imagine a world where your passion for comic books, video games, and movies isn’t confined to a single weekend in July. Imagine a community where the spirit of Comic-Con isn’t just a fleeting moment, but a year-round affair, a way of life. For the residents of San Diego, this isn’t fantasy, it’s reality, and the Science Fiction Coalition is at the heart of it all.
For Lonnie Lucas, cosplay wasn’t just a hobby, it was an extension of her lifelong love for dress-up. Her journey began with a 10-page backstory she crafted for an elf character at Afro Future Con in 2021. This passion for cosplay led her to the Science Fiction Coalition, a group that embraces the spirit of fandom and extends its reach beyond the confines of Comic-Con.
The Science Fiction Coalition isn’t just about dressing up as your favorite superheroes. It’s about building a community, providing a safe space for like-minded individuals to share their love for science fiction and “nerd talk,” as one member described it. Their mission is simple: to support their community, uplift each other, and celebrate the spirit of fandom, and they do it with a contagious enthusiasm that’s impossible to resist.
While Comic-Con may be the Super Bowl for members of the Science Fiction Coalition, their dedication to the community goes far beyond these five days in July. For them, being a superhero is a year-round calling, a commitment to bringing joy and support to those around them.
Their journey to becoming a force for good started on New Year’s Day 2017, when a group of science fiction enthusiasts came together and created a safe space to express themselves. Their shared passion for cosplay and their desire to give back to the community soon blossomed into a formidable organization with a Hulk-sized heart.
From Cosplay to Cause-Play: A Community United by Kindness
For Miguel and Lucy Capuchino, cosplay and volunteer work were initially separate passions. But joining the Science Fiction Coalition brought these two worlds together, creating a beautiful tapestry of generosity and creativity. Their shared passion for cosplay, ignited by their children, has led them to volunteer over 5,500 cosplay hours since 2018.
They are part of the Healing Little Heroes Foundation, a group that brings joy to children in the pediatric ward. Seeing the smiles on the faces of these children is what drives them, a priceless reward that transcends the thrill of cosplay.
Nina Church, a Navy veteran and professional photographer, shares this passion for giving back. For her family, Comic-Con is a cherished family tradition, a chance to connect with their love for superheroes and contribute to the community.
The Church family embodies the spirit of the Science Fiction Coalition, demonstrating that cosplay isn’t just about dressing up; it’s about making a difference, about bringing smiles to the faces of those who need it most. Their dedication to charity events, especially for military families, is a testament to their commitment to making the world a better place.
A Community That Embraces Everyone
Izola Siegfried, a passionate cosplayer and analyst by trade, found a sense of belonging within the Science Fiction Coalition. This tight-knit group, filled with individuals who share her love for cosplay, has become her family. Their shared passion for cosplay and their commitment to community service create a positive and supportive environment where everyone feels welcome.
Rey Benavides, a retail worker, initially found cosplay daunting. But the welcoming embrace of the Science Fiction Coalition made him feel comfortable and gave him a sense of belonging. He found that the common love for cosplay fostered a sense of community, making him feel less intimidated and more confident in expressing his passion.
Shawn Richter, the Science Fiction Coalition’s vice president and events coordinator, describes the magic of cosplay: “It’s not why I got into cosplay, but pretty much, at some point, you run into a kid who looks at you and smiles because they think you’re a superhero. That’s a really magical and amazing feeling.”
The Science Fiction Coalition proves that real-life superheroes don’t need capes and tights. They are the individuals who dedicate their time, talent, and passion to making the world a brighter place, one smile at a time.
A World Filled with Heroes
Lonnie Lucas, a lawyer and new mom, now uses cosplay as a way to connect with her son, Storey Blaze Newsome, creating a special bond through their shared love for Spider-Woman and baby Spider-Man. Their “cause-play,” as she calls it, is a testament to her commitment to public service, a continuation of her dedication to making a difference.
This passion for giving back is evident in the stories of the other members of the Science Fiction Coalition. James Royce Edwards, a professional stage actor, found a new purpose in cosplay, combining his love for superheroes with his desire to connect with the community. He found a home within the Science Fiction Coalition, where he could embrace his passion for cosplay and give back to those in need.
The Science Fiction Coalition is more than just a group of people who love to dress up. It’s a community of individuals who strive to make the world a better place, one cosplay at a time. They demonstrate that being a superhero isn’t just a Comic-Con affair, it’s a way of life, a commitment to making a difference in the lives of others.
Getting Started with Cosplay
So, you’re inspired by the stories of these San Diego superheroes and want to join the ranks of the Science Fiction Coalition. Where do you start? The first step is to embrace your passion for cosplay and find your tribe. There are many ways to get started:
- Research and Find Your Tribe: Explore online communities, local cosplay groups, and conventions. Connect with people who share your interests and find a group that resonates with you. The Science Fiction Coalition is a great starting point, but there are many other amazing cosplay communities out there.
- Choose Your Character: Pick a character that inspires you, that speaks to your inner superhero. Don’t be afraid to be creative and unique. Let your personality shine through your costume.
- Create Your Costume: Crafting your own costume can be incredibly rewarding. Explore different materials, techniques, and tutorials to bring your vision to life. If you’re not a seamstress, don’t worry! You can purchase pre-made costumes or find a talented cosplayer to create a custom piece for you.
- Practice and Perfect: Take the time to practice walking, posing, and interacting with others in your costume. The more comfortable you are, the more confident you’ll feel.
- Stay Safe: Cosplay can be physically demanding. Make sure your costume is comfortable and safe to wear. Be mindful of your surroundings and stay hydrated.
- Give Back: Find ways to use your cosplay to give back to your community. Participate in charity events, visit hospitals, or volunteer at local events. Share your passion and make a difference in the lives of others.
Remember, cosplay is more than just dressing up. It’s about expressing yourself, connecting with others, and making a positive impact on the world. So, embrace your inner superhero and join the ranks of the San Diego residents who are making a difference in the lives of others, one cosplay at a time.
What is the Science Fiction Coalition and what is its mission?
The Science Fiction Coalition is a group in San Diego that embraces the spirit of fandom beyond Comic-Con. Their mission is to support the community, uplift each other, and celebrate the spirit of fandom.
How did Lonnie Lucas’ journey into cosplay begin?
Lonnie Lucas’ journey into cosplay began with a 10-page backstory she crafted for an elf character at Afro Future Con in 2021, which was an extension of her lifelong love for dress-up.
How do members of the Science Fiction Coalition extend their passion for cosplay beyond Comic-Con?
Members of the Science Fiction Coalition extend their passion for cosplay by building a community, providing a safe space for like-minded individuals to share their love for science fiction, and engaging in volunteer work to bring joy and support to others.
— Understanding the Meaning Behind Your Overwhelming Stress Dreams
How has joining the Science Fiction Coalition impacted Miguel and Lucy Capuchino’s volunteer work?
Joining the Science Fiction Coalition brought together Miguel and Lucy Capuchino’s passion for cosplay and volunteer work, leading them to volunteer over 5,500 cosplay hours since 2018, particularly with the Healing Little Heroes Foundation to bring joy to children in the pediatric ward.
