Exploring LGBTQ Pagans on the Margins: Disability, Race, and Class

Pagan marvel LGBTQ refers to the exploration and celebration of queer identities within the framework of paganism and the wider LGBTQ community. Paganism, as a spiritual practice, encompasses a diverse range of beliefs and traditions that are rooted in Earth-based spirituality. It often emphasizes a deep connection with nature, honoring multiple gods and goddesses, and celebrating the cycles of life and the changing seasons. Many pagan traditions have historically embraced and revered LGBTQ individuals, recognizing the fluidity and diversity of human sexuality and gender. Today, there is a growing interest in exploring the intersection of paganism and LGBTQ identities. This includes the creation of queer-specific rituals and practices, as well as the incorporation of queer themes and symbolism into existing pagan traditions.

Editor’s note: This gallery was originally posted on May 6, 2022, and has been been updated.

There may be endless timelines in the Marvel Cinematic Universe but, back in the real world, some countries are far behind on any sort of forward movement and evolution. Back then, comic code would not have allowed an openly gay character, so creator John Byrne had hints through meeting a special friend named Raymonde Belmonde.

This includes the creation of queer-specific rituals and practices, as well as the incorporation of queer themes and symbolism into existing pagan traditions. Queer pagans often seek to create inclusive and affirming spaces within the larger pagan community, where LGBTQ individuals can feel welcomed and accepted. One example of this is the use of LGBTQ-specific ritual tools and symbols.

A Brief History of the MCU’s LGBTQ Promises and Problems

As "Black Panther: Wakanda Forever" hits theaters worldwide, yet another queer storyline falls flat, despite other representational strides. How did we get here?

Jude Dry

Editor’s note: This gallery was originally posted on May 6, 2022, and has been been updated.

There may be endless timelines in the Marvel Cinematic Universe but, back in the real world, some countries are far behind on any sort of forward movement and evolution.

Disney and Marvel held firm for the release of “Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness” in May, which features a brief moment in which newbie character America Chavez (Xochitl Gomez) mentions her two moms and flashes back to a childhood moment with them. As the studio has refused to make the requested changes to the film, the newest MCU title was released in Saudi Arabia and other Gulf countries.

Two months later, Taika Waititi’s “Thor: Love and Thunder” arrived and, with it, the answer to years of chatter about the romantic relationships of leading lady Valkyrie (Tessa Thompson). Many anticipated the release of the film and its long-promised bisexual representation for a fan favorite, but the proof is in the pudding: it’s not really there.

Marvel parent company Disney has weathered plenty of censorship battles over LGBTQ content in its films, which began with the overhyped “exclusively gay moment” in its live-action remake of “Beauty and the Beast” in 2017, but the resistance to giving into the demands this time around perhaps signals an important sea change.

Since the “Beauty and the Beast” kerfuffle, Disney has faced both backlash and praise for a lesbian character in Pixar’s “Onward,” a non-binary character in “West Side Story,” and a gay romance in Marvel’s “Eternals.” Behind the scenes, the studio has also faced accusations that it toned down or cut LGBTQ references, including romantic storylines in “Luca,” “Black Panther,” and “Turning Red.” The studio is responding to the outspoken criticism, reportedly restoring a previously-cut gay kiss in Pixar’s “Lightyear.”

So far, Marvel seems to be where Disney is taking its biggest risks, as the superhero tentpoles are gradually introducing more LGBTQ characters (and, in some cases, apparently starting to stand by them).

However, he was always in the role of villain or a side character. It was when he became the main character that Marvel finally confirmed Loki is genderfluid. In the comics, Loki has been both a male and female. This was confirmed in Original Sin Vol 1 # 2. This decision links back further into Norse mythology, which is one source of inspiration for the character. Norse mythology Loki is also depicted as genderfluid.

Editor’s note: This gallery was originally posted on May 6, 2022, and has been been updated.

There may be endless timelines in the Marvel Cinematic Universe but, back in the real world, some countries are far behind on any sort of forward movement and evolution.

Disney and Marvel held firm for the release of “Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness” in May, which features a brief moment in which newbie character America Chavez (Xochitl Gomez) mentions her two moms and flashes back to a childhood moment with them. As the studio has refused to make the requested changes to the film, the newest MCU title was released in Saudi Arabia and other Gulf countries.

Two months later, Taika Waititi’s “Thor: Love and Thunder” arrived and, with it, the answer to years of chatter about the romantic relationships of leading lady Valkyrie (Tessa Thompson). Many anticipated the release of the film and its long-promised bisexual representation for a fan favorite, but the proof is in the pudding: it’s not really there.

Marvel parent company Disney has weathered plenty of censorship battles over LGBTQ content in its films, which began with the overhyped “exclusively gay moment” in its live-action remake of “Beauty and the Beast” in 2017, but the resistance to giving into the demands this time around perhaps signals an important sea change.

Since the “Beauty and the Beast” kerfuffle, Disney has faced both backlash and praise for a lesbian character in Pixar’s “Onward,” a non-binary character in “West Side Story,” and a gay romance in Marvel’s “Eternals.” Behind the scenes, the studio has also faced accusations that it toned down or cut LGBTQ references, including romantic storylines in “Luca,” “Black Panther,” and “Turning Red.” The studio is responding to the outspoken criticism, reportedly restoring a previously-cut gay kiss in Pixar’s “Lightyear.”

So far, Marvel seems to be where Disney is taking its biggest risks, as the superhero tentpoles are gradually introducing more LGBTQ characters (and, in some cases, apparently starting to stand by them).

These may include the inclusion of rainbow-colored altar cloths, the use of gender-neutral language and pronouns in invocations, or the honoring of deities that are associated with gender diversity and queerness. By incorporating these elements into rituals and ceremonies, queer pagans can create spaces that reflect and celebrate their unique experiences. In addition to creating specific rituals and practices, queer pagans also engage in activism and advocacy within the wider LGBTQ community. This may involve participating in pride parades, organizing workshops and conferences, or working to create safer spaces for LGBTQ individuals within pagan and non-pagan communities alike. By combining their pagan spirituality with their LGBTQ identity, queer pagans are able to find strength and support in both communities. Overall, the exploration of LGBTQ identities within paganism is an important and empowering process. It allows queer individuals to connect with a spirituality that embraces their whole selves, including their sexual orientation and gender identity. Through the celebration of queer identities, pagan marvel LGBTQ seeks to create a more inclusive and diverse spiritual community that welcomes and honors all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity..

Reviews for "Creating LGBTQ Inclusive Spaces in Pagan Communities"

1. John - 2/5 stars - "I have to say, I was really disappointed with 'Pagan Marvel LGBTQ'. While I appreciate the effort to include LGBTQ representation in media, I found this book to be lacking in substance. The characters felt one-dimensional and their relationships were forced, leaving me feeling disconnected from the story. Additionally, the writing style was choppy and inconsistent, making it difficult to stay engaged. Overall, I was hoping for a more well-rounded and compelling read, but unfortunately, this book fell short for me."

2. Sarah - 2/5 stars - "I was excited to read 'Pagan Marvel LGBTQ' as I am an avid supporter of LGBTQ literature. However, I found this book to be quite disappointing. The plot was confusing and poorly developed, leaving me feeling disconnected from the story. The characters lacked depth and their dialogue felt forced, making it difficult to connect with them. Additionally, the pacing was uneven, with some sections dragging on and others feeling rushed. Overall, I appreciate the attempt to include LGBTQ representation, but this book didn't live up to my expectations."

Genderqueer Deities and Their Followers in Paganism