Health

Within the RLSH community, costumes are often discussed in terms of symbolism, visibility, or public perception. Less attention is paid to something far more important: how wearing a mask or costume actively changes the wearer’s behavior, confidence, and decision-making. This phenomenon, known as the "Mask Effect", is not abstract or optional. It operates whether an RLSH is conscious of it or not. Understanding the Mask Effect is essential for ethical, sustainable RLSH act

RLSH occupy an unusual cultural space, a grey area. They are not comic book characters, yet they borrow the visual language of comics. They are not law enforcement, yet some patrol streets. They are not social workers, yet many feed the hungry, provide supplies to the unhoused, or intervene in moments of crisis. To outsiders, RLSH are often reduced to novelty, eccentricity, or danger. To supporters, they represent grassroots heroism in a world where institutions frequent