Witches and Witchcraft have been associated with women’s struggle for equality since the middle ages. Witches threatened the patriarchy by women being in control of themselves. It has been an important part of the feminist cause throughout history. Witchcraft based spirituality focuses on personal power, female intuition, and links to nature. Witchcraft can be an empowering instrument for women, who have generally been denied power and freedom in both the spiritual and secular worlds and society, to reclaim their rightful place, independence and authority.
She ain’t out to get you but she’s better on your side…*
Since before colonial times, witchcraft has also been used to fight against the unjust patriarchy. That’s why witches have been feared by those in power who oppress others. Women who were daring enough to explore their own sexuality and take charge of it were persecuted as witches -because they sought autonomy. Today that is done through slut shaming and victim blaming. Slut-shaming, rape culture, and blaming the victim are all examples of the same sexist attitudes that fueled witch hunts and trials.
“Witches have always been women who dared to be: groovy, courageous, aggressive, intelligent, nonconformist, explorative, curious, independent, sexually liberated, revolutionary.
-W.I.T.C.H”
―
Why are you so afraid of a woman in charge…*
Women being in control of their sexuality fueled the witch hunts and trials. Women who were accused of witchcraft were often accused of using their sexuality to seduce men and lead them into the hands of the devil. This fear of women’s sexuality can still be seen today in the way that women are often shamed or made to feel bad for being sexual. Men who are sexually active are often praised for their accomplishments, but women who are sexually active are slut shamed.
She don’t wanna be anybody else, just a woman in total control of her self. *
Feminism and witchcraft both encourage women connect with their own choices and autonomy. Moreover, Both challenge the patriarchal structures that have been used against them for generations. By pursuing witchcraft along other means to defeat social oppression, women can stand up for themselves and each other help make the world a place where everyone can be themselves.
*from W.I.T.C.H. by Devon Cole
Read Also: Pride and Feminism
” ‘Witch’ is something we call a woman who demands the benefit of the doubt, who speaks the truth, who punctures the con, who kills your joy if your joy is killing.” —The Witches Are Coming, by Lindy West
“Witches. These are strong women that are often misunderstood by the world.”
― Witches, Sluts, Feminists: Conjuring the Sex Positive
“Me? I am just a baby Sea Witch.” – Tasha Marie.
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2iNslHxOlQ4c756qa7jdFD?si=a5054f1416e04540
