I remember in my Midwest college band, we stopped at a mall during a trip. Everyone broke off into smaller groups.

Timid kids were orbiting the anime shop for a while before I intentionally and loudly invited someone I liked to go in; “Woah, look it’s [goku,(can’t actually remember)], do you want to go check it out?” “Uh, sure.” Within minutes, the crowd awkwardly coming inside.

I remember the anxiety. I am so insecure and never talk to anyone, so I thought this would define me as a perverted loser. I was so relieved man. Even people I didn’t think could like anime were coming in.

As far as bullies, I feel like I remember the ones in highschool being fans of anime. Most people here who don’t like anime just don’t know it exists.