The Misunderstood Art of Voodoo: Challenging White Supremacy and Xenophobia Through Cultural Appreciation
It is crucial to challenge the negative stereotypes surrounding Voodoo and recognize it as a legitimate religion. We must question why certain religions are portrayed negatively and understand the cultural and historical significance of Voodoo.
Voodoo, also known as Vodou or Vodun, has been subject to misinterpretation and vilification over the years. The practice is often portrayed in a negative light, associated with devil worship and black magic. This perception is not only untrue but also deeply rooted in racism, xenophobia, and white supremacy. Voodoo is the law of attraction and manifestation, it is astrology and it is the belief that you can embody many Gods and Goddesses.
It is essential to acknowledge that Voodoo is a religion, just like Hinduism, Catholicism, or Islam. Voodoo has its roots in West African traditional religions and is widely practiced in countries like Haiti, Benin, and Togo. The religion has a rich history and culture that deserves to be celebrated and appreciated rather than vilified.
One of the reasons why Voodoo has been portrayed negatively is due to the negative stereotypes attached to African religions. These religions are often dismissed as primitive and barbaric, a view perpetuated by the colonial powers that imposed their religions and cultures on the colonized peoples. As a result, Voodoo, along with other African religions, was demonized as part of an attempt to undermine the cultural practices of the African people. It is very intentional that colonizers inflicted a form of self-hate onto its enslaved Africans, then replaced their religions with their own.
Another reason why Voodoo is perceived negatively is because of the media's portrayal of the religion. Movies and TV shows often depict Voodoo as a dark and mysterious practice, involving black magic, curses, and animal sacrifices. However, this representation is far from accurate and only serves to perpetuate negative stereotypes. Although voodoo can be used for bad, the vast majority of its practice is used for good.
Furthermore, Voodoo played a crucial role in the Haitian revolution, which saw the Haitian slaves rise up against their French oppressors. Voodoo was used as a unifying force for the enslaved population and helped to create a sense of community and solidarity. The religion was so significant that it was used as a catalyst for the slave rebellion, leading to the eventual defeat of the French army. Something so powerful and unifying had to be vilified by the oppressors of the Haitian people:
It is important to challenge the negative connotations surrounding Voodoo and recognize it as a religion just like any other. We must question the root cause of the negativity surrounding Voodoo and work to unlearn false teachings and understand the cultural and historical significance of the religion. Ask yourself why it is normalized to celebrate Halloween, but we shun voodoo? Why is it acceptable to believe Jesus turned water into wine or parted the Red Sea, but we shun voodoo? Why do people feel comfortable with popularized mediums like “Long Island Medium”? I will paint the picture for you if you have not guessed it, it’s because white people or corporations are behind these things. I have had to educate myself on a practice that is so integral to my identity. I have watched documentaries and read literature to debunk the myths within my own Haitian family. A religion that should bring pride often brings shame in many communities.
It is time to celebrate and appreciate the rich history and culture of Voodoo and reject the intentional prejudices and stereotypes that have been perpetuated for too long. Ones that are clearly rooted in oppression.