Emporiblog - The Broom Closet
By now, we're all familiar with the term of "coming out of the closet" which is considered a right of passage for those in the LGBTQ+ community so that they can finally take steps to becoming their most authentic selves. However, this isn't always something that can be done safely due to many factors in a persons environment.
This is a plight shared by us in the Witchy community. As Witchcraft is still demonised and misunderstood it can be hard for Witches to practice openly or even tell people that they are a Witch, thus forcing us into what has been dubbed The Broom Closet.
Reasons for being in the Broom Closet
There are a few reasons why a Witch has to remain hidden for their own safety, which include:
- Family. A persons family are normally the most difficult to come out to especially if religion plays a big role in your family's lives. If you're unable to move out due to age or finances then practicing openly isn't something that can be done safely. If you've moved out, you may find yourself wearing different clothing, jewellery and make up when you visit or completely remodeling your home when they visit to keep your path hidden.
- Where you live. This can literally be the difference between life and death. In the Middle East and parts of Africa there are strict rules and laws surrounding Witchcraft. In Saudi Arabia, there is a special police force dedicated to policing "Witchcraft Crime" that can end with the death penalty. If you live in a place with strict Witchcraft laws, do NOT practice until you're able to relocate. Local Customs can also make it difficult for Witches to live in certain places like America's Bible Belt. If you live in a heavily religious area, it's best to relocate or practice in secret but relocating would be safer.
How to come out of the Broom Closet
Please only do this if it is safe to do so!!
You need to start slow. Subtle will be your friend during this time. You can gradually introduce jewellery to your ensemble and gradually change your clothing. You should also choose who to tell first and what order to tell people in. Your friends will be easier to tell than family as it is easier to distance yourself from negative friends than negative family.
You can also use things to your advantage, like jewellery. Wearing a gemstone ring or a symbolic pendant can invite questions, which you can use to broach the subject and educate those around you. This can also be a vantage point to gauge people's reactions. How they react to jewellery could be a sign of how they'll react to Witchcraft in general.
If this step goes well, you can move on to less subtle gestures like having an Altar in your bedroom or offering readings to friends and family to help with questions that they have.
Please note that you will have to be considerate with your practice if you live with other people e.g ritual timings and anything that involves smoke especially if someone in your house has respiratory problems.
It is also worth noting that not everyone will be accepting. For some, it may be a case of needing time or education but some may never be ok with Witchcraft. How you deal with this is up to you.
For those of you that are out of the Broom Closet, I hope you can continue to practice safely!
For those of you who are yet to come out of the Broom Closet, I hope that in time you can safely do so!
I hope you've enjoyed this post! I apologise for the lateness as I've had some important things to take care of today!
We at Truesouls Emporium would like to ensure the safety of our fellow Witches. Our packaging is discreet and your package can be sent to an alternative address to ensure Broom Closet safety if needed! If you have any inquiries regarding Broom Closet safety and product orders, please send us a message and we'll be happy to help!
Blessings,
C )0(
👇🏻👇🏻👇🏻
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