PantheaCon and the New Pagan Media

Most of those I know would agree that a free press is an inherent necessity in maintaining a democratic society. Over the last few years we have all witnessed the escalation of hyperbole in the mainstream press. This trend towards the “Yellow Journalism” that was so present in the first part to the twentieth century threatens our nation and all minority communities. When the rhetoric turns to our community it is our Pagan press that responds with reason and a voice of moderation.

In this century, we have seen the emergence of the Internet with its ability for single individuals and small organizations to participate in the global conversation. Members of the “Pagan new media” have seized on this development and created a credible Pagan news community that stresses journalistic integrity, accuracy in reporting and the inclusion of those from all traditions within our community.

There is a fundamental difference between this new internet based press and the much admired periodicals that have been around for years. Today, Pagans can get daily updates on developing stories of interest to the community. This development means that we are informed, current and most importantly have reliable information not based on personal opinion or conjecture.

This new media have the ability to “call to action” our community like never before. Recently we have witnessed the success of the VA Pentacle project, Pagans responding financially to the crisis in Haiti and overwhelming support for the right of Pagan prisoners to have access to paid Pagan clergy. While there are many organizations in our community that can take pride in these developments: it is our new Pagan press that is the driving force behind the wide support for these causes.

The recent publication of the Pantheacon schedule of events reflects the importance of this new press. With three different presentations on the media, multiple discussion groups and a film showing hosted by a member of the Pagan press it clear that our media have become an influential force in our community and beyond. Further evidence of this new influence is provided by the inclusion of members of the Pagan media in publications such as The Washington Post, Belief Net, Patheos and others.

The members of this “Pagan new press” are in the drivers seat in terms of the direction our community will take in the future. Each of them has proven that they can be trusted with this immense responsibility. If you are going to PantheCon, take the time to meet this committed group of individuals. Each of them are in service to the entire Pagan community.

It would not be possible to write on this subject with out pointing out that the standard barer for the development of this new press is Jason Pitzl-Waters. Jason has taken the Wild Hunt to a level where it represents the best in journalistic excellence. It is important to note that Jason’s approach has not been to build a successful operation of his own but replicate his own success with the creation of the Pagan Newswire Collective. Add to these achievements Jason’s’ support for other competing Pagan news and discussion outlets and it is clear that his interest is in developing a diverse and positive journalistic community.

Having stated my admiration for our community of journalists let me ask: is this sustainable? While very few have managed to develop funding for their efforts, many more write and report on the Pagan community on their own time without pay. Whether you are a fan of the Wild Hunt, Patheos, Belief Net or one of the Pagan Newswire Collective bureaus, come forward and offer real support in a way that encourages this important asset to the Pagan community.

Anyone who has read this piece knows that I am no writer, yes I have a Blog where I share my experiences and opinions, but I do not possess the skills or ability to be a real writer. What I hope has come across is how important I think it is that we support those who do.

Peter Dybing
National First Officer
Covenant of the Goddess