"Perhaps even more than self-protection, though, we can begin to understand modern iterations of intersectional witchcraft as something culturally-informed and liberatory, something going far beyond survival, something worthy of all the protection we can provide, just as Tituba was." - Briana Suslovic, Uplifting Tituba: Protecting Witches of Color Then and Now
The Historical Woman
Tituba is historically documented as a brown slave who was the first to be accused of witchcraft in the Salem witch trials. Interestingly enough, though she was jailed and unduly mistreated, she was neither convicted nor sentenced by the courts. Some stories estimate Tituba was of Arowack and African descent. As many African slaves were sold through Caribbean ports this may be likely. It is also very likely that she carried on some of her ancestral wisdom practices. However, it is just as likely that she was used by her accusers to sow fear against women and people of color. Much of her historical life, including her origins and her fate, are mysteries. However, it is how we make meaning of what we know of her that is even more signifiant.
Tituba Today
We reclaim Tituba as a revolutionary being of anti-oppression, spiritual evolution, community building and Love. For us, Tituba becomes the archetype of a spirit-worker who blends ancestral wisdoms and present-day magical practices for healing, liberation, and flourishing. She helps us shed any fear and shame around being seen as our unique selves. Tituba is a tutelary spirit who guides us to reclaim our pride and power as agents of change. Tituba helps us reconnect to our own inner Divinity and inherent self-worth.