As superheroes continue to take the world by storm, more superheroines are starting to appear and take center stage. From the iconic and inspiring Wonder Woman to relatable rising stars like the Scarlet Witch, the superhero world is ready for more women to save the day!
But in this article, we won’t be talking about Wonder Woman, Scarlet Witch, or any of the more popular heroines. No, today, we will be focusing on the unsung heroines of the Marvel and DC Universes and what we can learn from them.
Wolverine: Laura Kinney
Made from the D.N.A. samples of Weapon X, (aka her father, the original Wolverine), Laura, then labeled X-23, had to endure a traumatic childhood as she was forced to be a weapon. But with the help of her mother, father, and newfound friends, Laura was able to find her freedom and identity. Then, when her father died, Laura became his successor as the all-new Wolverine!
Wolverine shows that the loving people in your life will bring out the best in you.
Hawkeye: Kate Bishop
Vowing to never be sexually assaulted again after an encounter in Central Park, Kate Bishop learned different forms of martial arts as self-defense. As her training continued, she even developed a talent for archery, like her favorite Avenger, Hawkeye. Later finding her calling as a superhero with the Young Avengers, Kate continues to fight for justice as Hawkeye!
Hawkeye teaches women who’ve experienced sexual assault that no one can take away their value as human beings.
Green Lantern: Jessica Cruz
After witnessing the death of her friends, Jessica Cruz found herself traumatized, and suffering debilitating anxiety for 4 years. Years later, Jessica was possessed by the fear-consuming Ring of Volthoom and was forced to be the villain, Power Ring. Finding the will to overcome her fears, Jessica exorcises Volthoom and becomes a will-powered superhero as part of the Green Lantern Corps!
Green Lantern shows women that bravery isn’t about being fearless, but it’s about choosing to overcome it.
Echo: Maya Lopez
After being tricked by a crime lord into almost killing a superhero, the deaf heroine Maya Lopez saves the day as Echo. Using her ability to perfectly copy any physical movement, Maya continues to redeem herself as she fights terrorists, crimelords, and alien invaders both as a solo vigilante, and a reserve member of the Avengers.
Echo shows differently-abled women that they can achieve their goals despite their limitations.
Speedy: Mia Dearden
Leaving her house from her abusive father, Mia Dearden was forced into becoming a prostitute by her lover in exchange for food and shelter. After being rescued and adopted by the Justice Leaguer, Green Arrow, Mia, inspired by his actions, trains to take on the mantle of his former sidekick, Speedy. Despite being HIV positive, Mia continues to fight for legal and social justice as Speedy!
Speedy shows that women suffering from HIV should not be looked down upon but celebrated for their bravery as they live their life while fighting this deadly disease.
