Daughters of Eve Q&A: Ebonee Herron-Newson

Name: Mrs. (Tiffany) Ebonee Herron-Newson

Location: Union City, Georgia

Website: The Life of an African-American Wiccan

Social Networking Site: The Life of an African-American Wiccan on Facebook

How long have you been a Wiccan/Pagan? What drew you to the path?

I’ve been a Wiccan for about 14 years now. Around that time I was experiencing traumatic personal family issues. At the time, my family and I were living in Germany, on a military base. While in Germany, there was another family who was pagan. They introduced me to paganism by allowing me into their circles and practices. I found deeper solace with their practice than my Christian background. I attempted numerous of times to reach out to the clergy (Christians), I felt a deep let down. I had to make appointments vs. able to walk in and receive help. With paganism, the family; they were there for me no matter what time of day. In addition, I had a family member who suffered from mental illness. Instead of telling my family member that they need to address the mental illness and seek scientific modern assistance, they believed only prayer would “caste the demons” out. Whereas with Paganism, science and religion is compatible. I received more spiritual help with modern views by my friends and “clergy” who were Pagan. The family made my decision very much easier for I already made a decision to leave Christianity, yet I also wasn’t ready to leave any form of spirituality. It made my decision to leave Christianity much easier having the pagan family nearby to turn to.

I began to research numerous paths under the umbrella of Paganism. It was Wicca that called me. Particularly the goddess Morrigan who consoled me the most. Since then, I’ve been Wiccan.

How has the path changed you? How much of you stayed the same?

The path changed me in the sense of more confident in myself. Particularly, my sexuality. What I mean by my sexuality is that my prior religious background forbidden; nail polish, earrings, shorts and skirts particular passed your knees. My body is very ‘curvaceous.’ I felt to be made ashamed of my big breast, curvy body, and big behind. All these characteristic is naturally me and no matter how much I tried to conceal these characteristics, they showed no matter what I wore. I never felt “good enough” I felt I wasn’t permitted to be a female. It was worse when I became pregnant at nineteen and unwedded. I felt ostracized.

Walking the Wiccan path made me unashamed to be naturally me… feminine, a mother, and yes… a sexual being. I no longer feel shame or dirty. I feel…. well, ME. As for how much of me that stayed the same; I like to say everything else. I am still down to earth, compassionate, and easy going person who doesn’t care for drama (as well as dogma).

What inspired you to create blog?

I wanted to represent an African-American/black Wiccan. Yes, there are other blogs out there of many black pagans. Yet, not too much of an individual who is actually Wiccan.. I follow the Wiccan Rede, the Sabbats, Esbats, and the gods/goddesses that I do incorporate into my practices are Celtic. My path is 14 years and counting. Therefore, it is neither a phase nor a fad. This is my religion. Wicca is my way of life and who I am.  Even my daughter is being raised in Wicca.

Name one misconception of being a black witch, pagan, Wiccan that you personally feel should be addressed? Within the black community? Within the pagan community, as a whole? What steps/ strategy should black pagans take to combat the misconceptions?

I believe within the black community, especially in the southern states (I reside in Georgia), there is a lot of misconception of “evil” supernatural forces that disguises itself in Wicca (anything that isn’t Christian for that matter). That our horn god is actually the devil in disguise. It is completely false for we don’t believe in harming anyone, especially ourselves. We don’t make blood sacrifices who wish anyone ill (due to the threefold law). Our practices is very similar to Christian practices; we give thanks, we pray, we believe in uplifting our community and each other. It’s just our “religion” is another name.

As for steps we should take; is communication, communication, and communication. To allow them into, even if they sit and observe, our rituals. Yet, not make a big to do with our rituals for it could be too much. Yet, show them the day to day rituals and/or prayers. I’m not saying to tell EVERYTHING for there are things we do keep to ourselves (similar to silent prayers are kept in secret). Yet, to be more open. Oh, to also make it (rituals and explanations) simple as possible.

What is your personal practice, spiritual/religious identity that you go by? Why do you choose such title?

Eclectic Wiccan:  I call myself an eclectic Wiccan. I prefer to go by this for I don’t go by Gardnerian Wicca or other branches of Wicca. Although I mostly work with Celtic patheon the majority of the time. There are times that Roman gods/desses calls to me for an example. Yes, they are far in-between but I must recognize and admit this.

Tell us about your practice: Are you solitary? Do you attend group rituals? Do you belong to a group? Why do you choose such practice?

I’m solitary, as we speak. In the future I may seek group rituals. Just at this point in my life right now, it’s too chaotic to commit to a coven. The last time I was in a group ritual was when I was 15, in Germany.

What was your religious background prior to your current path?

I was raised Christian, very typical. Denominational wise, Pentecostal by my mother and I attended Southern Baptist private school. Both Southern Baptist and Pentecostal are very much similar. There is not that much difference in the teachings (doctrine). Especially when it comes to women/girls roles.

What type of audience do you feel would benefit from your blog?

I believe newbies can find something that sparks their interest in my blog. As well with pagan/Wiccan mothers for I do post about my daughter and how I incorporate my practice in teaching her.

What deity (deities), if any, you most work with?

I mainly work with Celtic but I work with Greek deities. For Hecate does work with me, often.

What advice would you give to “new” black pagans?

Follow your heart, your path– no matter what people will say or may think. For it’s your path and your happiness. You are living YOUR life, not others.