Hi everyone! I’d like to hear different opinions about the trans representation in One Piece, especially regarding Ivankov and the whole Impel Down arc.

I’m not part of the transgender community, so I don’t want to assume anything — that’s why I’m asking.

My doubts: • Is Ivankov’s character considered offensive or stereotypical by some people? • Do the jokes, exaggerated design and comedic elements feel like mockery to the community? • Or is the character mostly seen as positive representation?

My personal view (and I’d love to know if I’m misunderstanding something):

I personally don’t think Oda is a prejudiced person. If he truly had bad intentions, it wouldn’t make much sense for him to give so much importance, depth and positive influence to characters like Ivankov and the okama community.

For example: • Ivankov literally helps many characters transition. • There’s representation of different types of queer identities — some people who don’t hate their bodies, who don’t want to change them, but express gender through fashion (lolita style, makeup, etc). • The okama characters show a wide range of personalities, expressions and stories.

So I sometimes wonder: If Oda were truly prejudiced, would he bother creating such complex, powerful and diverse characters? But at the same time, I know many people complain about the character design of trans characters in One Piece, saying it reinforces stereotypes.

So I genuinely want to understand:

👉 Do trans people or LGBTQ+ fans feel offended by the way Oda portrays Ivankov and the okama characters? 👉 Or do they feel represented — or something in between?

I really want to listen and learn from people who actually belong to the community. Thank you! 💗