Hey witches!
I recently came across something in a newly published magick book that really made me stop and think. For two weeks I thought about what I’d read, whether or not I agreed with it, and how it made me feel. Eventually I sought out the advice of a friend who has personal knowledge about the topic to clear a few things up.
Except for that one part that gave me pause, I was really enjoying the book! The author was obviously an adept in the field she was writing about, the book was well-written and full of great info about a topic I struggle to find good books about, and I thought I was ready to give this book a glowing review.
Unfortunately, that one little thing I read wouldn’t let me write a review just yet, and after talking to my friend I realized that this one little thing had changed how I felt about the book. Now I’m curious to know how others feel when they come across a magickal term or practice that makes them uncomfortable, or that they maybe don’t understand.
That’s where y’all come in.
About once a month I’ll be posting one of these Witch n’ Bitch topics, asking for your opinions or thoughts, and then doing a podcast episode about that topic and even include what you share! You can share your thoughts by using the tag #WitchNBitch on Facebook, twitter, or instagram, message me on tumblr, or shoot me an email. (If you don’t want me to share your thoughts, that’s ok too and you can just let me know. )
The phrase I came across that sparked this idea was “Plantation Magic.” For a little more context – this term is featured in the glossary as the magickal use of Magnolia. In the actual entry it says “…magnolia is very good for southern heritage magic. While not necessarily root magic, southern heritage magic is best described as upper-class, genteel white magic. This is in contrast to the root magic of Appalachia, where the magicians are closer to the soil.” Not only did I wonder what the hell Plantation Magic even is, but seeing southern heritage equated with plantations just seemed off. Then again, I’m a white woman from Canada, what do I know?
So what do YOU imagine when you hear the words Plantation Magic? How does this make you feel? Would you still recommend this book if the rest seemed legit?
I’m hoping this will foster important discussions with witches of all backgrounds, colours, and magick styles so we can all learn from each other. We need to hold each other accountable without attacking one another, and we need to discuss these topics. Much like feminism, witchcraft should be intersectional and work for the rights and freedoms of all people. So I’d love it if you’d take the opportunity to share how this makes you feel, and to read the thoughts and feelings of other witches.
Lookin’ for more opportunities to discuss magick and spiritual growth with other witches? Join the Witch n’ Bitch and take part in a monthly book club, live discussions and rituals, classes, and videos. Visit patreon.com/thefatfeministwitch to learn more!
As a Black witch in the South, I have to say that was incredibly offensive, that entry. Everything, EVERYTHING, about the South was built on the bloody exploitation of Black (and now Brown) bodies. To exorcise us out of the magic… well. I’ll say this and leave it. There’s not a bit of so-called Southern magic performed, then or now, that doesn’t brush up against the unresting spirits of Black enslaved folk.
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The phrasing “not necessarily root magic” makes me very suspect. Like Asali says above, “there’s not a bit of so-called Southern magic performed, then or now, that doesn’t brush up against the unresting spirits of Black enslaved folk.” So why is the author calling it Southern heritage or “plantation magic” instead of acknowledging this?
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I think that last line of your comment perfectly sums up why it made me uncomfortable! Would you mind if I quoted you in my episode?
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Yes, quoting me is fine. I’m referenced as Asali of Asali Earthwork.
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