Spellbook Saturday: Pride Edition! (Part 1)

I am thrilled to revive my Spellbook Saturday series for the month of June in celebration of Pride! As a bisexual white woman I am in the very privileged position of being open, comparatively safe, and celebrated in my identity, an experience not afforded to all in the queer community. This is not to say that I have not experienced anti-queer sentiments and “othering,” both personally and as an individual living in a deeply patriarchal and heternormative society. As such, throughout the years I have found incredible solace and inspiration in the work of LGBTQIA2S+ writers, a few of whom I am happy to share with you over the coming month.

First up is Queering the Tarot by Cassandra Snow. From the book’s description:

“Tarot is best used as a tool for self-discovery, healing, growth, empowerment, and liberation. Tarot archetypes provide the reader with a window into present circumstances and future potential. But what if that window only opened up on a world that was white, European, and heterosexual? The interpretations of the tarot that have been passed down through tradition presuppose a commonality and normalcy among humanity. At the root of card meanings are archetypes that we accept without questioning. But at what point do archetypes become stereotypes?”

While certain concepts presented may not feel revelatory to folks with the lived experience of being queer in a heteronormative society, I did find Snow’s approach to the topic to be very affirming. It is a lovely experience, to be both seen and centered, particularly within a subject that has for so long denied our existence. With this in mind, I would actually recommend this book more strongly to my straight friends, as it offers unique insight and gentle suggestions for expanding one’s tarot practice.

Fellow queer tarot readers, what has your experience been of using historically heteronormative tools for divination? Have you established your own practices and interpretations of various cards? Straight allies, what steps are you taking to make your tarot practice more inclusive? Share your thoughts in the comments!

DID YOU ENJOY THIS FEATURE? CHECK OUT OTHER TITLES IN THE #SPELLBOOKSATURDAY SERIES!