Comic book writers, artists and fans are coming together for one epic comic book, and for a good cause.
DC Entertainment and IDW Publishing will co-publish a 144-page special issue, Love is Love this December. The comic will feature LGBT characters and stories, with all proceeds going to Equality Florida and its fund to support those affected by the Pulse nightclub shooting.
Love is Love is the creation of writer Marc Andreyko, also known as the man behind Wonder Woman ‘77 as well as a former writer for Batwoman, the most high profile gay superhero in DC comics.
“When tragedy happens, art responds. And after the Pulse massacre, the comics community responded quickly, decisively, and with open hearts,” said Andreyko in a statement released by DC. “I could not be more proud of this book, or to be a member of the comics community. The talent and emotion on every page is staggering. Love is Love mourns the 49 lost, honors the survivors, and celebrates love in all forms.”
Over 100 stories were donated to make up the comic book from DC veterans such as Phil Jimenez (Superwoman) and James Tynion IV (Batman), as well as some non-comic authors like Patton Oswalt, who said on Twitter that he was, “Very proud and humbled” to be part of the project.
And who knows, maybe this will mark a turning point in the comic book community, which hasn’t always been kind to its LGBT characters. Although not all of the big time comic publishers are involved (yes, Marvel, we noticed your absence), this could be a step in the right direction for DC. While the company has been introducing more and more LGBT main characters, some fans are still bitter about the publisher’s decision to not allow Batwoman to marry her girlfriend Maggie Sawyer. Here’s hoping featuring her in their pinup indicates a new direction for the character, and the company.
Love is Love will be released in comic shops and bookstores on December 21 for $9.99, but IDW and DC have already released a few pages to the LA Times from 2 of the many stories:
Photos via DC Entertainment and IDW Publishing
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