In a new episode of "We Everywhere" — a new TikTok series exploring and highlighting Black culture, oftentimes in the places you least expect it — Cocoa Butter caught up with Lamar Dunlap, aka Gibson the Mouse, to talk all things Furry fandom!
A Furry is a subculture with an interest in anthropomorphic animal characters — that is, animals exhibiting human characteristics like walking on two legs, speaking, wearing clothes, and showing emotions.
Lamar took Cocoa Butter through the "Day in the life of a Furry," while also examining the lack of diversity, particularly with Black Furries, in the fandom.
Lamar revealed he starts his day like most people, by grooming himself. But that personal care is also extended to his Gibson the Mouse suit, so that he's ready to tackle his work day.
"I have a friend that's also a teacher," said Lamar. "I get to go to her class when she reads If You Give a Mouse a Cookie, and I get to hang out with this school. It totally blows their mind!"
He has also attended a few Furry conventions, which are attended by Furries from all over the world.
But he's noticed a theme whenever he's met Furries outside of their suits: "When I take my head off and I see all the other Furries, I realize I am the only African American there."
"It would be nice if there were others in the fandom like me. Furry fandom is all-inclusive. If you're breathing, we will welcome you with open, furry arms."
And despite the rumors and misconceptions, Lamar added being a Furry is not "all about sexual activity," it's really "all about fun."
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