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Representation is key to making people feel included and seen. With black people’s oppression in the real world, it isn’t surprising that kids witnessing Black anime female characters is a breath of fresh air. It makes them feel validated in a niche heavily dominated by white Asian characters.
Finding Black characters in anime isn’t very mainstream. So you won’t find a lot of Black anime female characters. But the good news is that change is happening. Albeit slow, it is happening.
This article will explore more about the top Black Anime female characters you can find in different anime shows.
About Black Anime Female Characters
Since the beginning of anime, things have changed and progressed in this animation niche. Not only are the characters more refined and with more assertive characters, but they also include a lot of representation, which wasn’t there before.
When it comes to Black representation, that bridge has come a long way too. The depiction of Black characters, especially Black female anime characters, has progressed significantly.
Although there aren’t many available, something is better than nothing, right? But which are some of the most popular Black anime female characters you should look into?
Top 10 Black Anime Female Characters
If you think that the inclusion of Black Anime female characters is only in a negative light, you are mistaken. They aren’t there just to portray the role of a villain.
Following are the top characters you should know:
1. S.A.M. – Cannon Busters
If you are sitting there wondering what S.A.M denotes, it is a short form for Special Associated Model. They are primary characters in Cannon Busters, a popular Netflix series. A first look at her will make you empathize with her innocence, but there’s more to the things than they look. Her character packs many secret powers you won’t find elsewhere. Of course, we don’t want to spoil the series by disclosing her secret strength. But, be assured that her over-friendly nature masks how powerful she is.
2. Casca – Berserk
While the recent day Black female anime characters have a more feminine and delicate side to them, Casca is simply “badass.” Her character is one of the first Black characters represented in anime, so she holds a significant place in that respect. Her place in the anime series, Berserk is quite commendable. Her grandeur and strength make her one of the strongest leaders in the troop of the Band of the Falcon. Most anime fans have been disappointed with her character’s development through the series, but she still holds a special place in people’s hearts.
3. Yoruichi Shihouin – Bleach
There’s no list of Black female anime characters without Yoruichi in it. Her noble title of being a princess isn’t her entire personality. Instead, she holds her own and is a strong character in the anime series. Her personality and character are immaculate, especially for the younger Black girls who want to draw inspiration. Not only is she resilient, but she’s also tough and humorous too. When the time comes, Yoruichi is there to kick people’s butt to win losing battles. Her switch from a laidback character to a leader is pretty impressive too.
4. Carole – Carole & Tuesday
If you are looking for a more chill Black female anime character, Carole from Carole and Tuesday is a good one. What makes her stand out as an inspiring character is her resilience. She doesn’t have the easiest start to her life. However, despite the challenges, she overcame them unscathed and stronger. Her zeal to make her aspirations a reality is a miracle to watch. Also, her musical and ethical abilities look promising. Furthermore, she’s there to serve if you want some styling and fashion inspiration.
5. Canary – HunterXHunter
A legend in the marking, Canary from HunterxHunter, deserves a special mention in the list. Canary is a young teenage girl with a badass personality. Despite her age and stature, Canary is a bodyguard for the Zoldyck family. Despite her delicate and cute appearance, her action and combat moves are impressive to sit back and enjoy. Her character has depth, especially with her strong and resilient side, and then you have her more compassionate and gentle side.
6. Coffee – Cowboy Bebop
Now, Coffee’s character in Cowboy Bepop has faced much criticism (and rightfully so). Despite being such a popular character, certain controversies are associated with the same. The most potent one is fetishization. Her sharp and somewhat cruel mannerisms leave a lasting impression on the viewers. She brings a lot of the peak 70s culture into her personality, which is a delight to watch.
7. Sister Krone – The Promised Neverland
Like Coffee, even Sister Krone’s representation in The Promised Neverland was highly criticized. It isn’t just the character that sparked conversations. It was more about the stereotyping that didn’t sit well with Black people. Although an antagonist in the series, her character has depth and layers, which the viewers have to watch to be able to unfold. Her resilience in the series is worth watching. So, if you can push aside your bias, we’d suggest you give this show a fair chance because the characters are pretty well depicted.
8. Atsuko Jackson – Michiko to Hatchin
Another tough and resilient Black female anime character deserves mention in the list is Atsuko Jackson. Without any exaggeration, her character carries the show, Michiko, to Hatchin. Her conflicts and cross with the protagonist, Michiko, are a treat. But, if you are looking for a powerful Black culture representation in anime, Atsuko’s character upholds that honor. Her determination and zeal to achieve her goals are a treat to watch on the show.
9. Miyuki Ayukawa – Basquash!
Now, not every character in an anime show has to have a brutal past or present, right? Miyuki from Basquash! is a great place to start if you want something lighthearted and fun to explore. Her character adds value to the show. Thanks to her chirpy, witty, and intelligent personality, watching this show becomes much more fun and engaging. In addition, her character works on improving the mechanics of giant robots, so that’s another factor you get to explore in the show. Her unique representation is quite a breath of fresh air to witness.
10. Hilda – Eureka Seven
Although Hilda has a supporting character in Eureka Seven, she deserves a spot on the list due to her strong personality. The series is unique, especially with its biblical and mecha themes. But what makes her stand out is her strong sense of character. She is a little pushy and touchy but determined and motivated simultaneously. She is the one if you want to indulge in a laidback but relatable Black female anime character.
Conclusion
Now, these are just a few Black female anime characters that are dominating the internet. There are quite a few others to explore. However, if you are new to anime and want to explore various cultured anime shows, these are some of the best ones we’d recommend. Almost all of these characters have kickstarted the concept of representation in anime. So, if you are looking for inspiration, this is an excellent place to start.
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