Be Careful When Cosplaying Outside A Convention

This was written in response to something that happened recently in a local San Diego Mall, where a cosplayer was told to either vacate the mall property or go and wash the makeup off. There was a bit of arguing, but thankfully nothing got physical or loud, and the cosplayer asked a friend to come help in removing the makeup.

We thought we'd make people aware of this law:

"CALIFORNIA STATE CODE 185. It shall be unlawful for any person to wear any mask, false whiskers, or any personal disguise (whether complete or partial) for the purpose of: One--Evading or escaping discovery, recognition, or identification in the commission of any public offense. Two--Concealment, flight, or escape, when charged with, arrested for, or convicted of, any public offense. Any person violating any of the provisions of this section shall be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor."

I understand that if someone was to use a disguise such as makeup or a mask to hide their identity in a robbery or shoplifting, then it could be a problem, and that person would get into more trouble. However, the person involved with this incident was completely open about what they were doing there, and even offered to show ID. A comment was made later that, if mall security had wanted to search the bags in connection to any kind of theft, it would have been accepted without question because they have nothing to hide. I think that the incident was blown out of proportion somewhat, but the cosplayer "at fault" has now said that it will not happen again, and is even considering not doing cosplay outside of the convention scene.

So, be careful about where you cosplay. There are indeed laws and rules regarding wearing masks and face makeup in shopping areas, but we were unaware of this until this incident occurred. Thank you San Diego Mall Security for setting use straight on this. We would hate for something like this to happen again.