I don't deny the influence of Tolkien on modern fantasy and D&D in particular. What can't continue to be justified is using that to say it's a reason not to increase diversity and representation. As I stated before, it's also fact that D&D draws elements from non-European mythology as well. Incorporating only some elements of non-European mythology while denying a broader representation of those cultures is hypocritical at best.
I'll say it again...D&D and modern fantasy has no excuse to continue with a Eurocentric environment without being open to increased representation of other cultures. These are settings based on worlds that have little in common with real world historical events and locations.
To continue saying that because Tolkien crafted his fantasy setting in a Eurocentric environment, therefore all fantasy that uses it as inspiration should continue to be Eurocentric only is what's dishonest.
At the end of the day, this is Dungeons and Dragons. Not Middle Earth Roleplaying, not Knights of the Round table role-playing, nor Viking role-playing. If Dungeons and Dragons can't handle increased representation of non-European humans and cultures, then it should also remove any and all references to non-European mythology.
Yes this is Forgotten Realms, which is, according to wikipedia, created in 1967 and commercialized in 1987.
It was and still is mainly about Western Fantasy.
However yes, it has been alive and many new contents were being added to the setting, especially the Oriental world of Kara Tur was introduced as early as 1988, the Arabian Al-Qadim was added in 1992.
Aside that, let's talk about what you really want. It seems to me that you want a fantasy world which reflects today's US demography? Like 50% Whites, 35% Hispanics, 10% Blacks, 5% Asian or something like that? Along with LGBTQ characters here and there? With stories of mistreated minorities by villain racist white males (we got that already with Tieflings in Druid cave)?
I myself am not interested. Keep fantasy world a fantasy world.
