This oppression narrative influences character arcs, such as Ch'en's moral dilemmas and FrostNova's determination, and is highlighted in reviews as politically prominent. Character designs include diverse fantastical elements like bunny-eared Amiya, dragonkin Ch'en, and Yeti Squad members, which feel organic to the sci-fi world-building rather than forced DEI.

However, these elements are not the primary emotional driver or foundational premise beyond the disease stigma analogy, with no race/gender-swapping, prominent LGBTQ+ representation, identity politics lectures, non-traditional pronouns, or creator-stated activism. Casting uses standard Japanese voice actors with no diversity mandates evident. Reception is positive (7.6/10 on MAL), with minimal audience backlash labeling it 'woke'; scattered X mentions note prejudice themes but no widespread controversy or 'go woke go broke' sentiment for this season.