Creating a Space Where Everyone Feels Seen & Safe
At Queen of Pentacles, we’re all about cultivating genuine good vibes. Our mission is to create a shop that feels inclusive, welcoming, and thoughtful, ensuring we steer clear of unintentionally promoting harmful ideas. We recognize the serious implications of the New Age to White Supremacy Pipeline and its harmful impact. Here’s a look at what we look out for:
“Special” People: Indigo Children/Starseeds & Human Design
- What’s Up: Some beliefs say certain folks are just “more advanced” or “designed” for specific roles. This can make some feel superior and others left out.
- Our Stance: We believe everyone has unique gifts and potential. We’re here to help everyone grow, not rank them on a spiritual scale.
Blaming Jewish People: “Lizard People”
- What’s Up: An outdated conspiracy theory says Jewish people are secretly reptiles ruling the world. It’s hurtful, untrue, and connected to real-world violence.
- Our Stance: We stand against hate and misinformation. Always.
Borrowing Without Asking: Cultural Appropriation
- What’s Up: Using sacred items or practices from other cultures without respect or permission can be harmful. It’s like borrowing someone’s story and changing it without asking.
- Our Stance: We value authenticity and collaboration. We partner with Indigenous artists and educate about cultural respect.
“Leveling Up” & “Purity”: Ascension/Pure Blood
- What’s Up: Talking about reaching a “higher level” or being “pure” can create a sense of judgment and exclusion.
- Our Stance: We embrace the messiness and beauty of being human. Everyone belongs here, no matter where they are on their journey.
Why we don’t sell white sage… or palo santo
At Queen of Pentacles, we believe in mindful and ethical spiritual practices. You might notice that we don’t carry white sage (also known as Salvia apiana) or promote the term “smudging.” Here’s why:
- White Sage is Sacred: White sage is a sacred plant to many Indigenous communities, particularly in California. Overharvesting for commercial purposes has severely impacted its availability and harmed ecosystems.
- “Smudging” is a Specific Ceremony: The term “smudging” refers to a specific ceremony practiced by some Indigenous peoples. Using this term loosely or outside of its cultural context is a form of cultural appropriation.
- Palo Santo is increasingly at risk of endangerment as a result of widespread unethical harvesting practices. The rising global demand for this sacred wood has led to overharvesting, with many suppliers failing to adhere to sustainable methods.
- We Advocate for Smoke Cleansing: Instead of white sage and “smudging,” we encourage the use of the term “smoke cleansing” with alternative herbs that are ethically sourced and sustainable.
- Indigenous-Crafted Items: All Indigenous practices available in our store, such as smoke bundles or braids, are sourced directly from Indigenous artisans. We are dedicated to uplifting Indigenous creators, preserving their cultural heritage, and honoring their traditions with the utmost respect.
Our Preferred Smoke Cleansing Alternatives:
- Cedar: Offers protection, purification, and blessings.
- Lavender: Promotes relaxation, peace, and emotional balance.
- Rosemary: Clears negativity, enhances memory, and promotes clarity.
We believe in honoring the Earth and respecting cultural traditions. By choosing sustainable alternatives and supporting Indigenous creators, we can all practice smoke cleansing in a way that is ethical and empowering.
On closed practices
In our shop, you may come across a book or two that clearly pertains to a closed practice. We include these offerings to support individuals within those practices, reflecting our commitment to diversity and inclusion. Some of the practices you may notice represented include:
- Brujería: This is a deeply rooted tradition of healing, witchcraft, and resistance practiced within Mexican and Latinx communities. It is often passed down through families and requires specific initiations. It is not open to those outside these communities.
- Hoodoo/Voodoo: These are African American and Afro-Caribbean spiritual traditions born from enslavement and resistance. Hoodoo is primarily practiced in the Southern United States, while Voodoo is primarily practiced in Haiti. These are closed practices passed down through families or initiations, and not open to those outside these communities.
- Santería/Lukumi: These are Afro-Cuban religions with West African (Yoruba) roots, involving ancestor veneration, orishas (deities), and complex rituals. It requires initiation by a qualified elder within a specific lineage, and not open to those outside the community.
- Dagara: Dagara is a closed, indigenous, West African tradition that requires initiation and community.
These traditions are living, breathing practices with deep cultural and historical significance. They are not a commodity to be bought, sold, or practiced casually.
We believe in respecting cultural boundaries. If you are drawn to learn more about a closed practice, we encourage you to:
- Seek Out Teachers from That Community: Find elders, teachers, or practitioners who are authorized to share their knowledge.
- Be Mindful of Appropriation: Avoid taking practices or symbols out of context.
- Support Authentic Practitioners: Buy from or support businesses owned and operated by members of the communities that own these traditions.
It is important to respect these closed practices and to not appropriate them. We are inclusive of all practices, but we expect you to respect closed practices and only purchase items related to these practices to support members of these communities. We are all here to learn from each other and grow, but we also must respect the traditions of others.
At Queen of Pentacles, we value authenticity, respect, and cultural humility. Please shop mindfully, and don’t hesitate to ask us if you have any questions. We are always learning and growing together!