Inside the campaign
It’s now officially 1200 days since DC Comics has released a Black-led ongoing comic series in their main timeline. The DCSoWhite campaign has put a spotlight on this huge lack of representation, stating every fact that goes along with it.
Here at Nerd Initiative, we are very dedicated to supporting more representation in the comic book world, and every other form of media. With supporting the DCSoWhite campaign, we at Nerd Initiative know how important it is that comic fans of every color, every sexuality, and every background be represented. Supporting DCSoWhite isn’t just about supporting Black characters in particular, but supporting marginalized groups that rarely see themselves represented in comic books. When supporting a movement like this, you have to put yourselves in the shoes of people that have to make movements like this just to be treated equally.
Some things the movement focuses on are
●The lack of sustained, ongoing titles led by Black characters in the mainline
continuity
● Short-lived initiatives without long-term commitment
● Limited marketing support for Black-led books
● Underrepresentation of Black editorial and creative talent
● Disparities in publishing opportunities, such as not valuing digital sales and not
allowing titles to get to trade before cancellation.
This isn’t asking much. This is just asking for the same representation that white characters have gotten from the beginning of comic book culture. It’s easy to dismiss a movement when you’re not personally affected by it, but this goes so much farther than just seeing Black characters in comic books. This is about what’s right.
Phase 2
Nerd Initiative fully supports the DCSoWhite campaign, and moving forward will adhere to Phase 2 of the movement.
What’s included in Phase 2 is a DC boycott called DCBlackOut. The DCBlackOut calls on it’s supporters for the following –
● Post on social media and call for DC Comics to publish 1-3 brand new ongoings
for Black heroes in their mainline continuity with strong Black creative teams.
● Cancel their pull list subscriptions for all DC titles, including ongoings, mini
series, and collected editions, until a Black-led ongoing in mainline continuity is
solicited.
● Raise awareness about the fact that digital sales are not valued the same as
preorders of single issues.
● Push for transparent, long-term commitment and investment to Black
representation.
● Support Black creators through independent and creator-owned projects.
● Encourage industry-wide conversations surrounding equity, visibility, and
sustainability.
As the saying goes, be the change you want to see in the world. Change starts with one person, and grows into something more. all DCSoWhite is asking for is the representation in comic books that these groups have every right to.
Resources
To support the cause, we implore you to sign the petition here!
To learn more about DCSoWhite – click here!
You can also learn more about the creators of the movement and learn all you need to know about the movement here and here!
