Representation matters in Superhero media

I think that representation is incredibly important, especially in superhero stories. Now, representation is important in all stories, not just this one, but it is what I know best. Why is representation important, and why, specifically in this setting?  Simple children are a big audience for this setting and these stories whether it is actual children or the inner child of the reader. These children are here to see a hero, someone who is to be idolized and has a goal, and when you don’t see any heroes who look like you, who don’t live like you, who don’t speak, or feel like you, then you begin to believe that you cannot be someone worth idolization or appreciation. It is really that simple. Kids need to see heroes who are like them to believe that they, too, can be heroes.

Writers are often afraid of writing diversity. To be honest, I am sometimes afraid of it, too, because we think we are going to get it wrong. The thing is that as long as we approach it with care and thought and are open to being criticized and fix our work in the future and, most importantly, listen to the people of those communities. Also, write characters who happen to be those identities, not identities that happen to be characters but don’t make their identities not important to how the character lives their life. It really is about finding a balance.

Now before I dig myself an even deeper hole on this whole topic. I know this is a shorter post than I would like, but the first week of school is really running me down. Thank you for reading. Now, remember, I am just writing one post a week. I might move the regular release to Thursday as it will be better for my work schedule.