Back To The Broom Closet

Last updated on: October 25, 2010 at 7:15 pm by Peter Dybing

Back To The Broom Closet 2010-10-25T19:15:00-06:00 Peter Dybing

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Many in the community have seen me drive my vehicle with a sticker that says, “Your silence will not protect you” a sentiment that I borrowed from the Gay community. For years I have been fond of saying, “I don’t even remember where the broom closet is”.

It has always been my belief that, while honoring those who choose to remain private, it is in the interest of our community to come out and proclaim our identity as Witches. Once I lost a job due to my beliefs, fought the unjust actions of my employer and prevailed. Deep inside, a part of me has always felt that the courage to face these prejudices was a sign of the fullness of my commitment to my Wiccan path.

Well, I was wrong.

With a trip to Africa pending, I have been spending time researching my destination. With a few Google searches I had all the information I needed. It seems Africa is in critical need of individuals with the humanitarian logistics skills I possess. Another insight was that I could never live and work in Africa as an open Wiccan, and even traveling there presents some risk.

In Africa even the accusation of witchcraft leads to arrest, jail time and all to often, death. If you admit to being a Witch it is possible you have signed your own death warrant. So where does that leave me with my “high brow” open Witch theory?

Looking for my broom closet.

This process has been insightful, what risks have I really taken over the years? Truth is , not many. Who am I to champion coming out? I realize that there are many witches who remain private in their beliefs. Some fear subjecting their children to bullying, or worse. Some are in debt and cannot risk their employer’s reactions. Others live in a community where they would be ostracized and lose all they have. With no children at home, a secure employment situation and a supportive community of friends, all I have ever risked is offending some right wing extremist.

There is one person I have offended, myself. This process has left me wondering at the arrogance of someone who promotes others to actions he himself has not taken, namely me. To my fellow Witches, I apologize for this affront. To myself, I commit to not lose sight of honoring the choices others make. I am not in their shoes and should not advocate that others make the same choices as I have.

So will I go to Africa? Yes, there is important work to be done. I will, however, take a large suitcase in which I intend pack my long lost broom closet.

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