Is D.Va from Overwatch a symbol for women’s protest around the world?
At the same time as the inauguration of American President Donald Trump, the “Women’s March on Washington” took place recently. The protests were meant to send a message to the entire world and draw attention to issues like racism, polarization, and misogyny. Although the protest march was initially planned only in America, similar actions were started around the world – including in Seoul, the capital of South Korea.
Among all the flags and signs waved there, gamers will certainly recognize one symbol in particular: The Bunny Symbol that D.Va from Overwatch bears on her mech and her weapon, which is her trademark.
What seems strange and somewhat out of place at first makes sense after a moment’s thought. D.Va, whose real name is “Hana Song,” hails from South Korea in the world of Overwatch and embodies many things that the protest march wants to express. She is a strong, independent woman who wants to maintain peace in her country and loves people and their diversity.
Apart from the flags, stickers featuring the symbol have also been spotted, accompanied by the slogan: “The rise of the woman = the rise of the nation.”
Cortyn says: I think this is pretty cool. It shows in a new way how much video games, their symbolism, and characters have now resonated in different societies around our world. And if there are examples of strong, multi-dimensional characters – why shouldn’t they also be shown in important matters?
But what do you think? Is it “silly” to print the symbol of a fictional character on such a significant protest flag? Or do you believe that the message matters and that any example is valid – even a video game heroine?
