Superhero Politics Podcast

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Have you ever considered the connection between superhero politics and real-world power dynamics? Join us for a captivating conversation with comic book enthusiast and political science major, Joshua Drumming, as we unravel the politics of superheroes and their reflection on our views of justice and morality. Joshua enlightens us on the presence of white supremacy in juvenile mediums and how neoliberal policies exacerbate its effects.
Together, we examine the implications of American-centric messages in superhero stories, focusing on how Superman often represents the United States. We discuss the idea of wealth and power as superpowers and the way they contribute to feelings of powerlessness. Throughout our conversation, we explore the shift from 'Truth, Justice, and the American Way' to a less America-centric message, and the importance of speaking truth to power in today's confused America.
Lastly, we dive into the impact of critical race theory on black history and culture, discussing the erasure of African American contributions due to white cultural imperialism. This episode is an eye-opening exploration of the intersection of comic books, politics, and social issues. Join us and learn how we can use our power to make a difference in the world and become the heroes we are meant to be.
Follow Joshua on his Social Media Links:
Linkedin: Joshua Drumming

Tik Tok: @joshuadrumming

Here are some of Joshua's suggested reading:

Political Texts:

1. Groundings with my Brothers

2. Inglorious Empire

3. Fire on the Levee

4. Caste

5. Black Ethnics: Race, Immigration, and the Pursuit of the American Dream

Comics:

1. Kingdom Come

2. Superman (current run)

3. Action Comics

4. Bitter Root

5. Black Hammer

6. Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow

7. Sins of Sinister

8. Icon and Rocket: Season 1

9. Static:Season 1/ Static: Shadows of Dakota

10. Duo

11. Blood Syndicate: Season 1

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Have you ever contemplated the power of comics? How they've been used throughout centuries to narrate potent political messages, shape societal beliefs, and even question the norm? We bring you an episode that will make you see comics in a different light. From our electrifying panel experience at Galaxy Con Rally to the analysis of the first comic strip created in the 1700s, we unravel the complexity and depth of comics. We also invite you, our listeners, to share your thoughts and questions ignited by our discussion.
We have an honest conversation about the vital issue of representation in comics and wider society. The impact of recent legislation, Supreme Court decisions, and their potential to erase history and reverse progress is alarming. We discuss such instances as the controversy surrounding Chadwick Boseman’s covered face in the Asian release of Black Panther. The narrative of how comics can serve as a medium of self-expression and celebration, particularly for children, wraps up this part.
The topic of race-swapping in pop culture is a contentious one. We delve into representations of darker-skinned characters in historical art pieces and the implications of race-swaps today. Representation in media and comics has the potential to shape societal beliefs and opinions. We touch on the Bud Light controversy and the impact of actor strikes, illustrating the power of storytelling. The episode concludes with a deep look into diversity in X-Men comics, the upcoming Blue Beetle series, and how the 'otherness' phenomenon unites people against a common adversary. Tune in for an insightful, enlightening, and thought-provoking conversation.

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Are you ready to hear from a comic book enthusiast who's been on the front lines of conventions and cosplay? Our intriguing guest peels back the pages of her life-long love for comics, anime, and cosplay - a journey that started with her family's history of collecting comic books. She unravels her personal experiences at conventions and grappling with race-bending characters, emphasizing the importance of respectful representation for characters of color.
We also crack open the sometimes murky world of representation for black people in the realms of comics and anime. We analyze the characters of Perry White, Jimmy Olsen, Starfire, and Naomi, asking the hard-hitting question - are they truly advancing the industry or merely ticking boxes? We don't shy away from discussing the lack of sustainability for characters of color and the potential for change through upcoming titles featuring black and indigenous characters. Tune in as we also explore how the power of social media can be harnessed to educate about the rich history of black characters in comics. Get ready to embark on a deep exploration of the world of comics and anime!
“The world isn’t perfect. But it’s there for us, doing the best it can... that’s what makes it so damn beautiful.” — Roy Mustang (Full Metal Alchemist)
Follow Christina on TikTok @drkaori
Merch: https://bit.ly/kaoriakariMarvelDCMerch
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The role of reality warpers in comics has been as heroes and villains'. Beings with the power to bend the very cosmos to their will are a constant threat to all we know. While those that seek to bend reality in the real world wield microphones and gavels and not Infinity Gauntlets, they are no less able to make us doubt all that we know. In this episode we will take on the blatant attempts to remake our history, alter our present and control the future of our democracy as we know it.
In my heart, I knew you still cared. But one ever knows for sure. Reality is often disappointing .That is, it was. Now, reality can be whatever I want."
― Thanos

Well known reality warpers:
Mr. Mxyzptlk (Character) - Comic Vine (gamespot.com)
Max Faraday (Character) - Comic Vine (gamespot.com)Mad Jim Jaspers (Character) - Comic Vine (gamespot.com)
Jenny Quantum (Character) - Comic Vine (gamespot.com)
Franklin Richards (Character) - Comic Vine (gamespot.com)
X-Man (Character) - Comic Vine (gamespot.com)
Critical Race Theory
The 1619 Project: The 1619 Project - Wikipedia
Nikole Hannah Jones: Nikole Hannah Jones
Nikole Hannah-Jones Won't Join UNC-Chapel Hill Faculty Without Tenure (msn.com)
Legislation
For the People Act: Text - H.R.1 - 117th Congress (2021-2022): For the People Act of 2021 | Congress.gov | Library of Congress
George Floyd Justice and Policing Act: H.R.1280 - 117th Congress (2021-2022): George Floyd Justice in Policing Act of 2021 | Congress.gov | Library of Congress
Emmett Till Anti Lynching Act: H.R.35 - 116th Congress (2019-2020): Emmett Till Antilynching Act | Congress.gov | Library of Congress
John Lewis Voting Rights Act: How is the John Lewis Voting Rights Act different from H.R. 1? - The Washington Post
Comics
Static Shock: Static: Season One creators discuss the character’s revamp at DC Comics - Polygon

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Season 2 is right around the corner and we cant wait to rejoin the battle!

Support the show

https://www.hmaconsultinggroup.com