Reader JaynieDoodle writes in with an interesting question. She says, "My father is Hispanic and my mom is African-American, so I'm about as non-caucasian as anyone can get. Whenever I mention my interest in Paganism, people assume I should be practicing either Santeria or Voodoo, just because of my skin color. However, I've always found myself drawn to the beliefs of proto-Indo European countries, and in particular, the Wiccan system of spirituality. Can I still be Wiccan even though I'm a brown-skinned person?"
Yes, yes, a thousand times yes. There are Wiccans of all colors, ethnic backgrounds, shapes and sizes. There is absolutely no racial or cultural requirement to be Wiccan.
That having been said, I think there tends to be a misconception in the Pagan community that someone with non-caucasian ancestry must automatically be following the paths of their cultural origins. I also think it's an honest mistake that people make, because many people DO tend to be drawn to the paths of their ancestors -- the problem is that we go and assume everyone else is drawn to the paths of *their* ancestors, and that's simply not the case all the time. I've met Wiccans and Pagans of just about every racial background I can think of, and ultimately, it seems that what matters most is what you do and believe, not the package you're wrapped in.
It's an interesting discussion topic, though, and never having been a brown-skinned person, I'm hoping maybe some of our readers who are part of racial minorities would like to contribute some thoughts on this one.
Yes, yes, a thousand times yes. There are Wiccans of all colors, ethnic backgrounds, shapes and sizes. There is absolutely no racial or cultural requirement to be Wiccan.
That having been said, I think there tends to be a misconception in the Pagan community that someone with non-caucasian ancestry must automatically be following the paths of their cultural origins. I also think it's an honest mistake that people make, because many people DO tend to be drawn to the paths of their ancestors -- the problem is that we go and assume everyone else is drawn to the paths of *their* ancestors, and that's simply not the case all the time. I've met Wiccans and Pagans of just about every racial background I can think of, and ultimately, it seems that what matters most is what you do and believe, not the package you're wrapped in.
It's an interesting discussion topic, though, and never having been a brown-skinned person, I'm hoping maybe some of our readers who are part of racial minorities would like to contribute some thoughts on this one.
I admit the title of this article confused me. My first thought was, what does skin color have to do with faith? It wasn’t until I read it that I understood the issue. I say go for what appeals to you, what you can believe in. It’s not disrespectful of ancestors to follow a different path than they might have walked.
Being a proudly mongrel American (mostly Irish, Czech, & German but there’s some other stuff in my blood too) & about as white as can be, I find myself drawn somewhat towards Native American beliefs, incorporating certain aspects of them in my own rituals. I also share a few beliefs with both Wicca & Santeria. I think of myself as non-denominational.
“Dichoso el encuentro” (Merry meet)
Well, I must be the living example then of a similar circumstance of the reader who posed the question. I am Puerto Rican of mixed native Taino, Spanish and African ancestry (as most Puerto Ricans tend to be). I have been on the wiccan path for the past 18 years, lead a teaching coven, was the island’s first licensed Pagan minister, and am in the process of writing a series of books in Spanish aimed at hispanic Pagans. (Believe me there are a lot of them!)
As for the connection with Europe,.. um, did someone here forget that the word “hispanic” means relating to SPAIN? Last I checked, that’s in Europe! (lol) Northern Spain, in particular the region of Galicia, retains its Celtic roots, some theorizing that the name of the region itself is a Romanized version of the Celtic Crone Goddess Caillech (excuse the spelling if wrong). Spain has an extensive community of Wiccans and other Pagans, as does Brazil and Mexico in the Americas among other places like Puerto Rico. I have networked with Wiccans all over the southern continent and the Caribbean in these past 8 years that I have been publicly Pagan.
So “yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus”, oops, sorry: I mean, there are Hispanic Wiccans!
Bienaventurados sean todos (blessed be all) y que tengan un Samonis Bendecido (and may you have a Blessed Samhain)
Lady Nightsilver, HPs
Guardianes del Sendero Antiguo
(Guardians of the Ancient Way)
Puerto Rico
I know I have Hispanic and Black friends who are Wiccan and Pagan, many who are drawn to Celtic/European paths.
Yay diversity!
There is also the fact that though you are brown skinned this life, there is not guaratee that you were not of a paler persuasion in a past life. Like Chrissy, I am mongrel white (very pale, so make it Nothern Europe), but I have several past lives that seem to be of Incan or Anasazi origins.
To further the complexity, you may have a Caucasian ancestor or two that you don’t know about. My husband is an excellent case in point. Anyone looking at him would assume that he is of strictly European ancestry, and for good reason- he is fourth generation Irish-American. He is also part Native American.
Technically, he meets the requirements to be a registered tribe member. He got bullied a lot as a kid because of his skin color, though, so he ended up connecting with his Irish heritage exclusively. After reading this, though, I’m thinking we should keep this bit of family lore alive, just in case we have a descendant who is otherwise inexplicably drawn to Native American beliefs!
I always thought it was what you believed in on the inside.Not what you looked like on the outside.But thats just me.
BB
Think about times and places in history that you are drawn to, and there is a chance that you have a personal connection to them ie – past life. Just because you live in a darker skin this time around doesn’t mean that you weren’t personally connected to the Old Religion in a Celtic form in a past life(s). Perhaps the lessons that you need to learn this time around need you to experience things in a different culture.
Your beliefs are those that you chose to embrace. And really, how many Pagans believe in reincarnation? Most that I know do, so therefore, you may be drawn to something you worshiped in the past, who knows? I have a friend who has explored all their ancestors beliefs, she is now Norse, but has been Egyptian Pagan, and Wiccan, and Ceremonial. Each should believe as they are led to believe, be true to yourself!
As Pagans pride ourselves on diversity and open-mindedness, you should feel free to express yourself and worship as you please. If it calls to you, by all means go to it with open arms, heart and mind. Goddess bless!
I think I was egyptian in a past life, and my husband who is korean (alittle japanese in there fome the japanese occupation of korea) say he feels he was european in a past life. shamanism is verry popular and verry much alive in his country (people practise it along with christianity and buddhism, all 3 sometimes).
Wicca is not about the color of the skin. It’s about who and what you really are, on the inside. If Wicca answers your spiritual questions, go for it!
My father is Puerto Rican(with a dash of Chinese) and my mother is a white mish-mash(Scandinavian/Serbian/German/and a lot of others)from California. So I having a mix of belief systems is pretty normal for me. I have the belief that it doesn’t matter what your color is. You can be whatever you want. I am Ecclectic Wiccan and it’s right for me.
I am a African American Unitarian Universalist, we have a group “Gaia Spirit Circle” which is comprised of those who wish to participate. depending on who is leading the session Pagan, Wiccan, Goddes and Earth Based Spiritaly are expressed (with the meaning of what is happening). We are a mixed group in skin color and heritage. to find another group that is willing to discuss the topic of “RACE and RELIGION” is refreshing and gives me hope for the future. Thank You
My husband is as anglo-saxon as they come but follows the Egyptian pantheon. I say go with what you’re drawn to. It’s where you’re meant to be. BB Chris
I am Puerto Rican but I know in my past life Iwas a Scot.I cant explain it but I have this need to go back to my roots when I hear the bagpipes I get the chills like Im being drawn back to something or some place. I am Pagan but more drawn to a celtic belief system. Thanks everyone for bringing up this subject for a long time I thought I was the only one
Ummmm errrrr the last I checked “Gaia” is our whole world not just a continent or hemisphere. Welcome to the community you’ve long been apart of, Sister.
Oh my goodness: thank you SO much for posting this question, and thank you everyone that answered! I “discovered” Wicca about three years ago, and was thrilled to bits and tiny pieces — until I read a quote from a Native fellow who said (and I’m paraphrasing here)that before non-Indians go trying to bring meaning to their lives by laying claim to another people’s ways and religion, they should first go investigate the faith(s) that is part of their own heritage.
For some reason, that one hit me like a ton of bricks. And since that moment, every time I find myself wanting to take a more hands-on approach to Wicca (as opposed to window shopping), I hear that statement and start feeling seriously guilty for having even considered it.
But I feel a whooole LOT better now! Thank you!!
Dearest Jackie and all my brothers and sisters; As a Sisseton/Wapheton Sioux and Assinboine I am SOOO SORRY to hear about your crossing with the negativity of that “Native Fellow” Please do NOT let the idea’s of one ‘bad apple’ spoil the bunch!! Just because Pagan beliefs are so close to the Native American past should only encourage and foster more spirtualality and love amoung us ALL… I’m sure OUR “Great Grandfather” feels the same.
Blessed Be
I am another American mongrel. I’m mostly drawn to the Irish 1/4 of my ancestry both religiously and culturally, but I also have ancestors who were Polish, Scots, English, as well as a little Native American–we think Cherokee, and African-American. Maybe that’s why I consider myself a more inclusive Pagan rather than strictly Wiccan? Like several other people have mentioned, I think probably you are drawn to the gods that you worshipped in a past life.
Crystal Rose
As many who have posted, I am an American “Heinz 57″; however, my main ancestry is Italian and Irish. One would assume that I would follow either Celtic traditions or Strega. I am also a health professional, so I originally thought I’d be drawn to deities who were healers. Wow–was I wrong! The main two deities that I feel calling my name are Voluspa (Norse Goddess of sight) and the Egyptian Thoth (the “great scholar”, if you will). So go for what feels right to you, and may the Goddess and God bless you on your path!
Blessed be!
ChickDude1
Glad to read some of the comments here.
I am an English mongrel – Scots, Viking, and Jewish ancestry, to name but a few I know of!
Although I’d call myself an eclectic Witch with Wiccan leanings, the Goddess to whom I am drawn is the Egyptian Isis- and I have far memory of being Her priestess during the Graeco-Roman occupation of Egypt!
Yes, you are aware of your racial heritage in this life, but we all believe what we believe, not what we are told we ought to believe! (If it was that simple, we’d all still follow our family faiths, wouldn’t we?
As Pagans , we think for ourselves, so welcome, Sister, and Lord & Lady bless!
People used to think you had to be an old white guy to be President of the United States, too.
Our coven is predominantly Caucasian but only because that’s how it’s happened so far. Diversity is a wonderful thing, and I hope both our coven and our religion continue to draw in members from different ethnic backgrounds.
We are all the children of our mother (the Earth) and our father (the sky)… and from an evolutionary standpoint, we call came from the same place. Skin color is like height or the size of one’s feet or some such… it can be used as an identifying characteristic but beyond that, what does it mean? We are all bothers and sisters, and Wicca belongs to all who hold its ways in their hearts.
Not being Wiccan myself, I’m not quite fit to answer, but in my beliefs, the Universe loves everyone and what shade your skin is has very little to do with your path. Although it is understandable that most would follow the ways of their own ancestors, it is by no means a requirement. I mean most of us come from christian backgrounds and chose this path ourselves, so, if you wanna be Wiccan, I say go for it!
Blessings
Nightwind
I am a black Wiccan, with some Native American ancestry. As Wiccans, we believe in the concept that God/Goddess is universal. The God and Goddess accept everyone. Although you MAY be drawn to a God or Goddess or type of pagan practice that is ethnic, that is not necessarily so. These days, most of what is taught IS a mix of all different pagan practices, unless you are lucky enough to be accepted into one of those very rare communities that has kept their pagan practice very pure, such as those who practice strega (Italian witchcraft), or another variety, in which their way of life has changed very little, and they are very adverse to letting outsiders in, no matter what your skin color. Over the centuries Greek, Egyptian, Native American, Voodoo, Voudon, African, and many more types of paganism have intermingled enough, that when you read spells and books, scholars, such as the renowned Raven Grimassi and others can see where each culture has contributed to what we have today. So the answer in nutshell is no, you do NOT have to be white to be Wiccan. I have seen and conversed with several Wiccans who are Black, Hispanic, Italian, Irish, and a mix of other races. I am also a teacher of the craft in Manchester, CT. This religion, if you are Wiccan, and this PATH, if you are pagan knows no color. I have worked with, and continue to work with Greek, Roman, Celtic, Egyptian, Gods and Goddess, and with people from all walks of live. There is only acceptance on this path. Skin color never comes into play.
The words I read here have given me hope for mankind. I have recently found the path to wicca. And now I know I’m in good company!
I am African American and I am Wiccan. I have been for 16 years now. The Gooddess has been good to me. If you are interested in meeting other Wiccans online feel free to join:
African-American_Wiccans@yahoogroups.com
They have close to 700 members but all may not be African American. Definitely have Latino and Native members
here is the good link
Even traditional Wicca is essentially an eclectic religion. It does not “belong” to any particular culture. (That would be confusing Wicca with Reconstructionism). So I think we are placing way too much emphasis on lineage, past-lives, etc. For example, my ancestors were mainly Celts who where conquered and threatened by Germanic peoples. There’s no reason that I should feel called to Norse deities any more than to Yoruban deities just because I’m “white”, and have a small percentage of Norse blood in me.
But this question of cross-cultural spirituality raises many political issues. You see, I’m white with some native american, and I’ve felt called to Yemaya, Coatlique and Kali. However, I deliberately avoid these deities for fear of being accused of “cultural appropriation” by those who maintain an authentic kin-based worship of them and feel that I’m just a voyeuristic white exploiting their traditions for my own spiritual needs. And so, paradoxically, I stick to the white deities out of respect for minority communities. But I hope that one day we can foster a syncretic tradition with enough trust to allow the borrowing and sharing of practices between cultures, without people feeling that their cultural autonomy is under attack.
I Am 23 and I’m African American as it gets. I was born in AZ and moved to Jersey in adolescence & was teased for “talking white”[proper diction] I despise stereotypes. That said, I noticed from a young age I was always drawn to candles Ive always known their meanings and significance before I did any research. More things like that-a natural affinity for God/Goddess based spirituality has followed me. But there is a catch. I was raised Baptist and have 7 baptist Pastor uncles and my family is heavily involved in Christianity. I am terrified. I don’t live in the Ghetto percé, but the black people here certainly are all Holy Rollers and I feel so out of place. I’m glad this question was posted and I feel a pull in my heart to pursue knowledge [my year and a day] but I also feel intensly alone because I did a little net surfing and there are non like me until Long Island which is so far
All of your comments really blessed me as well, though. Thanx
Thank you *so* much for asking this question! I’m in a somewhat similar situation; I’m adopted Korean, raised and living in the midwest my whole life amongst (mostly) white people. I’ve always felt drawn to an earth-based spirituality (check one in the “nature” column, I guess!) but have never felt totally comfortable: I used to think that Cerridwen and Odin were imagined as white and were thus not for me. Now though, I understand all deities transcend human ethnicity.
At the risk of sounding shallow, it would have been a comfort to find a pantheon that ‘looks like me’, but in exploring native Korean shamanism (mudang) and various Chinese and Japanese spiritualities, it occured to me that just about anyone is “suitable enough” to follow/worship anything. I’m very happy to know there are like-minded people out there, and am coming to embrace my status as a non-white pagan. Thank you, and many blessings!
Hey , mind helping me ? Is Wicca legal or practice in Spain ? I need to take precaution , is it legal or does anyone practices it there? Mind reply me through an email ? louischeese_23@hotmail.com thks
forget them its you dont allow the judgeing or people tring to tell you what you believe what you practice.
all my life ive taken interest and now i im in occult school, study, pray to the goddesses. i consider my self a future wiccan/pagan.
and damn well proud of it! : D
b.b
Hey, you guys left some really interesting comments here… And, I must say that the original question is completely valid; reason being, culturally it is not expected or socially acceptable for non-whites (especially Blacks) to be either Pagan or Wiccan. In fact there are many traditional practices or even recreational events that are considered taboo in the African American community, not because of racism, but because of non-exposure. For example, I have friends who find it funny that I have been skiing (I am Black). But, there is no logical reason why I should not go skying, except for the fact that it is not traditionally a “black” activity. Likewise, Paganism and Wicca are beliefs that are commonly unaccepted, or at least unexpected in the black community. And, perhaps it is just a matter of making people more aware of your practices. It is a little unfair that most people are given there first impression of “wizardry” from Disney movies. Instead, there should be more open discussions like these. I often find that there is hostile communication between Christians, Wiccans, and others. But, I refuse to believe that The “Lord” belongs only to any particular group of people on the earth, or that the “elements” can be used by only “white people”
Traditionally, Jesus calmed the wind during a terrible storm — Does that make him an “Air-bender” LOL!… But, anyway let’s all just talk some more and REALLY get to know each other.
– Gus
Dear Gus, truer words were never spoken. I cannot tell you how much flack I got from others in the black community just because I chose to listen to rock instead of rap, hiphop, and R&B when I was a teenager. (And we won’t get into the insults I had just for wanting to properly enunciate my words during business calls.) So if we can get negative feedback for such minor things as skiing or choices in music, I personally can understand why the original poster felt a need to ask that particular question.
My advice to the original poster: if it feels right for you, do it, just don’t be surprised if those around you may say some unintentionally hurtful things. Unfortunately you may get that just for following a “non-mainstream” religion anyway, regardless of any racial issues. Beware of boneheads; they exist in every group. Even if most of those close to you don’t get you or your choices, there are those out there who will (just look at the comments here for example). I can say I have weathered all the negative feedback and have stood by the choices I made when I was younger, both in religion and music.