Hexes and curses as tools for fighting against oppression

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By: Siren U.G

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Curses, hexes and their consequences have been the subject of controversy among neo-pagan witchcraft circles, that ignores the history of how magic has been used by marginalized groups as protection. Policies such as "light and love" are not always helpful against intolerance, the racism and violence that we face every day. 

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The demonization of witchcraft practices by colonizers has managed to implant in us a feeling of guilt when the idea of ​​taking revenge or making those who made us suffer also suffer. Our oppressors want our submission and punish any attempt at rebellion. They made sure to stigmatize the magic of people of color, as we can see in our language where white magic is "good" and black magic is "bad." Freeing ourselves from these stereotypes is the first step towards decolonization and the claim of magic and divination in Latine cultures, which were an accepted and respected part of society. 

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Cursing can be used as a protection against a society that wants our voices drown. However, when we hex an individual, we have to be willing to accept the consequences of our actions. Our hex will bring damage and if you're not sure you really want to do it, don't. 

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The first step is to consult with our ancestors, our gods or spirit guides and with ourselves if cursing is the tool to use. These types of spells require conviction and resolution, doubting or failing will affect the result. At best, it won't work, and at worst, it will backfire against us or our loved ones. 

The second step is to decide the level and type of damage we want to do. A curse intended directly to the individual may affect more than a generic one. Thinking well about a curse with a cool head will allow us to take advantage of this tool in a better way. Think of a hammer: a nail in the wood can go in with a lot of hits, but a well-hit blow with the correct force will allow the nail to enter without major problem. 

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The third step is to gather the materials for the spell. Materials for a curse in brujería are usually easy to come by: the full name, a photo of the abuser, or something they touched. If you do not have a photo, a drawing or a representation of that person will allow you to perform the spell. Depending on the spell, you can use animal parts. A pig's tongue for a police, a chicken liver for an alcoholic; creativity is one of your best tools to personalize your spell. Finally, do not forget your protections, whether they are candles, crystals or whatever you feel comfortable using.

 

The fourth step is the casting of the spell. It is advisable to carry out some kind of cleansing before and after any type of spell, especially when cursing someone. Most of the spells of Mexican witchcraft indicate that the remains of the spell (either ashes or the parts of animals that were used) be located as close as possible to the aggressor, preferably on the door of your house or in your patio. If not possible, I recommend that you bury it as far as possible from your own home. If you decide to throw it away, it should not be in your house for more than one night. 

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Even if you consider that cursing is not a tool that you want to use, it is important to recognize that it is possible to use them for the protection of marginalized persons, as valid as others.