My Love for Wicked

I’ve loved the musical Wicked ever since I saw it for the first time in 2005. Since then, I’ve seen it live seven times, and more recently, I’ve had the joy of watching the movie adaptation twice. I was amazed at how well the movie stayed true to the magic of the musical. While I found Gregory Maguire’s original book to be much darker, the stage and screen versions brought out themes of empowerment, hope, and the resilience of those who are marginalized.

The Exploration of Power in Wicked the Movie

One of the aspects of Wicked that resonates with me most deeply is its exploration of power. In our society, we often think of power as synonymous with ability, but the musical offers a much more nuanced view. Elphaba, our green-skinned protagonist, possesses incredible abilities, yet the real power in Oz rests with those who wield authority—the Wizard and Madame Morrible. They use their authority to manipulate public opinion, restrict the rights of the Animals, and scapegoat anyone who challenges their control. It’s a story that feels all too familiar.

Power Dynamics and Marginalization

Watching the movie, I was struck by the clear power dynamics at play—how those in authority use their influence to suppress marginalized voices. This isn’t just a fictional narrative; it’s a reflection of what happens in our world. Those who hold the authority often use it to limit the power of others, especially when those individuals refuse to use their abilities to uphold the status quo. Elphaba’s journey is a reminder that while we may not always have institutional authority, we each possess power. And when we use that power collectively, we can challenge those who misuse their authority.

Parallels to Current Events

The recent news regarding the proposed ban on transgender military service members brought these themes to the forefront of my mind. According to the Human Rights Campaign, former President Donald Trump is reportedly planning to reinstate and expand the ban on transgender people serving in the military. The ban could force out an estimated 15,000 transgender service members, individuals who have been serving honorably and meeting every qualification necessary. This isn’t about readiness or qualifications; it’s about using authority to control, to marginalize, and to vilify.

Scapegoating and Fear Tactics

In Wicked, the Wizard and Madame Morrible manipulate the citizens of Oz by spreading lies about Elphaba. They turn her into the “Wicked Witch” because she refuses to support their discriminatory actions against the Animals. One of the most heartbreaking examples of this is Doctor Dillamond, an actual goat and a professor at Shiz University, who loses his job simply because he is an Animal. Later, Elphaba has a vision of Doctor Dillamond caged, a stark reminder of how those in power can strip others of their basic rights and dignity. Similarly, the proposed ban attempts to paint transgender service members as “unfit to serve” despite their dedication and patriotism. It’s a stark example of those in authority leveraging fear and misinformation to maintain their control, much like the tactics used in Oz.

The Power of Solidarity

But there’s also an important message of hope within Wicked. Despite the Wizard’s efforts, Elphaba continues to fight for what she believes in. She uses her abilities for good, even when it means standing alone. And as the musical shows, there’s immense power in solidarity. Glinda’s journey from passive bystander to an ally for change is a powerful reminder that when we choose to use our privilege to stand with those who are marginalized, we create real, lasting change.

Individual Power vs. Collective Action

We each have power. For some of us, it looks like the ability to organize, to speak up, to advocate. For others, it’s the privilege we hold in certain spaces—whether that’s the color of our skin, our gender identity, or our position in society. The challenge, as Wicked so beautifully illustrates, is that power alone isn’t enough. True change happens when we come together. Individually, we may not always have authority, but collectively, we can challenge injustice and hold those in authority accountable.

Privilege and Justice in Wicked the Movie

The movie also highlighted the concept of privilege—a theme that’s deeply relevant to today’s struggles for justice. The Animals of Oz are scapegoated and stripped of their rights, while those with privilege ignore their plight. It’s a story that echoes the experiences of many marginalized communities today. The privilege of ignoring the struggles of others is something we must all reckon with, especially if we want to build a more equitable world.

Standing Up Against Discrimination

The recent developments regarding transgender military service members make it imperative that we stand up, as Elphaba did, against discriminatory practices. Transgender people already face immense challenges, and banning them from serving in the military—a place where they have proven their skill and dedication—is not only unfair but harmful to us all. As the Human Rights Campaign points out, this kind of ban weakens our military, undermines readiness, and sends a message that bias and discrimination are more important than qualifications and service.

Using Our Voices

Each of us has a role to play in challenging these injustices. We may not all be able to cast spells like Elphaba, but we have our voices, our vote, and our ability to support one another. We can choose to amplify the voices of those who are marginalized, to educate ourselves and others, and to challenge misinformation when we see it. The Wizard and Madame Morrible relied on the silence and complicity of others to maintain their authority. By speaking out, we can dismantle the systems that seek to oppress.

Finding Hope in Wicked the Movie

Wicked has always been a story about finding your voice, about embracing your power even when others try to silence you. As I watched the movie adaptation, I felt a renewed sense of hope. Elphaba may not have been able to change the minds of everyone in Oz, but she inspired those around her to think differently, to question authority, and to fight for what was right.

Resources for Support

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the current political climate, or if you’re struggling to find hope, remember that you are not alone. There are resources available to support you, including organizations like the Human Rights Campaign and The Trevor Project. These groups are working tirelessly to protect the rights of LGBTQIA+ individuals and provide safe spaces for those in need. Let’s also not forget the power of community—of standing together, of supporting one another, and of using our collective voice to demand change.

Take Action

The challenge ahead of us is significant, but as Wicked teaches us, we are capable of more than we think. We each have a role to play in creating a world where everyone is treated with dignity and respect. So let’s take inspiration from Elphaba. Let’s stand up, speak out, and use our power for good. Together, we can make a difference.

If you’re ready to take a stand against injustice, consider getting involved with organizations that are fighting for LGBTQIA+ rights, like the Human Rights Campaign or Folx with Faith. Whether it’s donating, volunteering, or simply educating yourself and those around you, every action counts. Let’s be the kind of people who, like Elphaba, refuse to be silent in the face of injustice. Together, we have the power to create change.

And if you haven’t yet, go see Wicked the movie. It’s an inspiring story that reminds us of the importance of standing up for what’s right and embracing our power to make a difference.

The Trevor Project

Trans Lifeline

LGBT National Help Center