Earlier this year one shortsighted Marvel executive said that the company’s comic book sales were suffering because of new titles featuring diverse characters (a.k.a. literally anyone who isn’t a straight white male hero). It was a load of crap at the time (as our very own Kelly Kanayama so perfectly pointed out), since it not only was refuted by sales numbers, but because it was devoid of any context and understanding of what was really happening with those new characters. And while others at Marvel were quick to try and walk back those comments, the whole affair left a bad taste in fans’ mouths.
That’s why this video from Stan Lee himself, standing up for diversity, inclusion, and representation in Marvel comics is just the message the Marvel needed to deliver from its official YouTube channel. Not only to remind people they are committed to giving a voice to everyone, but because the real world needs to be reminded heroes and role models come in all forms.
“Those stories have room for everyone, regardless of their race, gender, religion, or color of their skin,” said Lee, “The only things we don’t have have room for are hatred, intolerance, and bigotry.”
Hear hear.
Because when Thanos attacks, you don’t care which god the Avenger who saved you prays to when he or she goes home. The same way it doesn’t matter what gender someone identifies as when they rescue you from your flooded home. And if a talking raccoon can save the galaxy, a female Muslim teenager can save Jersey City.
Marvel isn’t perfect, and not just because one stupid exec said something stupid (where in the hell is our Black Widow movie?), and they make plenty of mistakes when it comes to diverse representation. But it’s good to know there are people working there who are standing up to get things right. And it’s nice to hear them say it.
What other types of heroes would you like to see added to their lineup? Tell us in the comments below.
Images: Wiki Commons
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