Here is the issue:

 

Anime Expo has changed their rules on COVID-19. They no longer require COVID-19 Vaccination Cards or negative COVID-19 test for entry into the convention. This in itself is very dangerous for many attendees, volunteers, staff, guest, etc.

 

This is also very contradictory to their disabled inclusivity and their disabled program because this can make immunocompromised individuals more susceptible to COVID-19 because people with COVID-19 could possibly enter the convention center. Immunocompromised people can experience symptoms of COVID-19 more severely because of the simple fact they are immunocompromised. Self explanatory. 

 

They do still require face coverings, but with this regulation change the mask mandate is at risk of being taken away as well. This is a huge disappointment to many attendees who have immunocompromisation or friends/family who are immunocompromised. This entire thing is ridiculous, and i cannot think of any reason why these regulations would be taken away. Stuff like this is what is causing the recent COVID-19 spikes globally.

 

What needs to change:

 

Anime Expo needs to revert their COVID-19 regulations in which they require COVID-19 Vaccination Cards and Negative COVID-19 tests whether that is a photo of an at home test, the test itself, a testing center outside of the convention center, or paperwork of a COVID-19 test taken at a medical place or testing center. They need to require the COVID-19 Vaccination Cards to be brought with the individual who is entering the building.

 

If Anime Expo is so "disabled friendly" then this should be an enforced requirement.

 

If these things are not brought/shown then they need to refuse entry until the proof is brought/shown regardless if a ticket was purchased or not.

 

What happens if we win ?:

 

The safety of many will be saved and the more attendees can feel safer going to the convention knowing that they are safer from COVID-19. This will also help with COVID-19 spikes in Los Angeles if people who are infected are not allowed in the convention center. This is ensure or at least decrease the chances of getting COVID-19. Conventions are places where people should have fun, not have to worry about their health and the risks of extreme symptoms and/or death.

 

What happens if we lose ?:

 

If Anime Expo does not change their COVID-19 regulations, they need to fully refund all of the attendees who no longer going because of the regulation change. Many attendees will not go regardless of whether Anime Expo refunds them. They will lose hundreds of attendees and future attendees and will disappoint even more. This can also cause major financial loss and a loss of attendees which can cause them to shut down if enough people stop attending the con.

 

Thank you for your time, consideration, and concern.

 

Sincerely,

 

Eclipse

@Eclecticlight