Irregular’s Intel – Where Do We Go From Here?

Right now, anything every geek is talking about is Black Panther and with good reason. It has obliterated records, exceeded expectations, and is a cultural phenomenon. All these things are awesome, they really are. And, as I was thinking about the deeper impact this movie has had, it brought a question in my mind – where do we go from here? 

Not to forget Wonder Woman, that movie knocked down doors and made people take notice! It brought to the big screen powerful women who defined themselves and were not just female counterparts of male heroes. There was a full culture for the audience to immerse themselves in… it honestly felt like I was experiencing a long hidden part of Greek Mythology! It was so refreshing to see powerful women who defined themselves!

Now, Black Panther has thrown down the gauntlet! It’s not just about seeing a person of color on the screen as a superhero – we’ve been there before. This is an unapologetically African character with a predominantly black (African American, African British, Caribbean American…) cast! This is also an opportunity to see a culture where the women are on equal footing with the men. A culture where women are revered for who they are, not how they look or their supportive role in a patriarchal society! Imagine the message this sends to people of color and to adolescent women.

As a culture… as a geek culture…  we can take cues from this. We can forget about gender and make room at the table for everyone. Treat all gamers/cosplayers/comic fans alike… call out racism and sexism when you see it. Do your part to make your world like Wakanda. If each of us makes just a little change, big things can happen… things that can ripple out to communities and beyond.

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