Editor’s Column: The World of Queer Fandom

Last issue, the Boulet Brothers talked to us about how horror has always resonated with queer people because we’ve always been marginalized, so we can relate to the monsters in the movies. That same line of reasoning makes a lot of sense for why LGBTQ people are drawn to comic and fandom culture.

The comparison manifests in a lot of ways. Many times, queer folks are the villains in comics and fiction stories, leaving us to wonder why we side with the “bad guys.” But other times, it’s the heroes who are mutants, outcasts, and freaks, yet still celebrated, which definitely resonates. Not to mention, many queer folks felt like outcasts in high school, and thus gravitated towards various forms of “nerd” culture.

This November, bravery and strength in the face of evil and opposition is needed
more than ever. As our cover story proves, many times, these stories offer us strength rather than an escape or a place to hide, and they often parallel the real world.

Star Trek has been breaking down cultural and racial boundaries for decades, and the stories it tells are anything but escapism. So, whether your aim is to curl up with a good story or get educated about how to become the hero you wish to see in the world, read on for some insight into the world of queer fandoms.

–Addison Herron-Wheeler