Decolonize
Sharon Lee De La Cruz presents a spirited chapter from her graphic memoir I’m a Wild Seed
Artwork/photo courtesy of Sharon Lee De La Cruz
AUTHOR’S NOTE
The thought of decolonization has always felt far away, as if I would have to live on Mars to experience it, given how ingrained capitalism is in our day-to-day. However, when I came into my queerness as an adult, my process required (and still does) an intimate examination of heteronormative behaviors and expectations. Coming into my queerness included a self-reflection of the role spirituality plays in my life and how I could better partner with the land. This, to say I am not a master of decolonization but a forever work in progress.
I grew up as a passive Catholic and now gravitate towards more indigenous practices, and strive to encompass behaviors that hold me accountable to the land I have the privilege of experiencing. Accountability, for me, goes beyond recycling (which is excellent) and conversing with the earth through planting, touching, and verbal conversation. Researching Santería spiritual practices and learning about them through my father taught me how queer and rooted in environmental justice Santería is. This discovery made sense because of intersectionality and the idea that our identities do not live in silos. Although I have a long spiritual journey ahead of me, I now know that it includes dance, herbs, human relationships, the energy I put into the earth, and the art I continue to make. My spiritual journey continues to challenge me to find awareness around my passive behaviors and expectations.
—Sharon Lee De La Cruz
June 2021
From I’m a Wild Seed (Street Noise Books, 2021) by Sharon Lee De La Cruz
“Anyone out there feeling like they are alone in their struggle may find a kindred spirit in De La Cruz's telling of her own journey.”
―Booklist
