A Yule log pagan, also known as a Yule log witch, is someone who incorporates the tradition of the Yule log into their pagan or Wiccan practices. The Yule log is a custom and symbol associated with the celebration of Yule, which is one of the eight Sabbats on the Wiccan Wheel of the Year. In pagan and Wiccan practices, Yule is typically celebrated around the winter solstice, which falls on December 21st or 22nd in the Northern Hemisphere. It is a time to honor the return of the sun and the beginning of the lengthening days. The Yule log is seen as a representation of the sun and is burned to symbolize the kindling of the light within oneself. A yule log pagan may choose to gather their own Yule log or purchase one.
Today in courtrooms across America, Black creativity and artistry is being criminalized. With increasing and troubling frequency, prosecutors are attempting to use rap lyrics as confessions. This practice isn’t just a violation of First Amendment protections for speech and creative expression. It punishes already marginalized communities and silences their stories of family, struggle, survival, and triumph.
Fans of our culture know that creative expression in music is rooted in what artists see and hear, and hip-hop often magnifies the good and the bad happening in impoverished communities around the world. We applaud Governor Newsom for recently signing a bill into law in California, and we urge action on bills currently under consideration in New York and New Jersey, as well as the RAP Restoring Artistic Protection Act legislation introduced by Rep.
A yule log pagan may choose to gather their own Yule log or purchase one. Traditionally, the log is made out of oak or another hardwood, as these woods are associated with strength, endurance, and protection. The log is decorated with various symbols, such as evergreen branches, holly, mistletoe, and ribbons.
Art on Trial: Protect Black Art
Born from street culture nearly 50 years ago, hip-hop has grown to become the most popular genre of music around the world. Fans of our culture know that creative expression in music is rooted in what artists see and hear, and hip-hop often magnifies the good and the bad happening in impoverished communities around the world. Rap artists are storytellers. As with all entertainment, hip-hop artists create entire worlds populated with complex characters who often play both hero and villain.
Today in courtrooms across America, Black creativity and artistry is being criminalized. With increasing and troubling frequency, prosecutors are attempting to use rap lyrics as confessions. This practice isn’t just a violation of First Amendment protections for speech and creative expression. It punishes already marginalized communities and silences their stories of family, struggle, survival, and triumph.
Currently in Georgia, multiple artists belonging to Young Stoner Life Records – including Grammy-winning artists like Young Thug – are facing more than 50 allegations, including RICO charges which claim the record label is a criminal gang. The allegations heavily rely on the artists’ lyrics that prosecutors claim are “overt evidence of conspiracy.” In the indictment, Fulton County prosecutors argue that lyrics like “I get all type of cash, I’m a general” are a confession of criminal intent.
This un-American practice must end. We urge the prompt adoption of legislation at the Federal and State level that would limit how prosecutors can use creative and artistic expression as evidence against defendants in criminal trials. We applaud Governor Newsom for recently signing a bill into law in California, and we urge action on bills currently under consideration in New York and New Jersey, as well as the RAP (Restoring Artistic Protection) Act legislation introduced by Rep. Hank Johnson and Rep. Jamaal Bowman in the U.S. Congress. We hope that similar bills will become law across America to end this attack on our First Amendment freedoms that disproportionately harms Black and other minority artists.
We must protect Black art, creativity, and communities.
Born from street culture nearly 50 years ago, hip-hop has grown to become the most popular genre of music around the world. Fans of our culture know that creative expression in music is rooted in what artists see and hear, and hip-hop often magnifies the good and the bad happening in impoverished communities around the world. Rap artists are storytellers. As with all entertainment, hip-hop artists create entire worlds populated with complex characters who often play both hero and villain.
The Yule log is typically burned in a hearth or bonfire during the Yule ritual. As it burns, the log is believed to release the energy of the sun and bring light into the darkness. Some yule log pagans may write wishes or intentions on a piece of paper and place it in the fire, symbolizing the release of their desires into the universe. In addition to the burning of the Yule log, yule log pagans may engage in other rituals and practices to honor the winter solstice and the turning of the Wheel of the Year. This may include meditation, divination, spells, feasting, and spending time in nature. Overall, a yule log pagan is someone who embraces the symbolism and ritual associated with the Yule log in their pagan or Wiccan practices. They use the Yule log as a tool for reflection, transformation, and connection with the cycles of nature and the divine..
Reviews for "The Yule Log: A Catalyst for Healing and Transformation in Pagan Winter Solstice Rituals"
1. Sarah - 2/5 - This book was not at all what I was expecting. I thought it would offer a comprehensive insight into the pagan tradition of yulelogs, but it was disappointingly brief and lacking in depth. The author spent more time rambling about unrelated topics than actually explaining the significance of yulelogs in paganism. I was also disappointed by the lack of historical context and research in the book. Overall, I wouldn't recommend it to anyone looking for a thorough exploration of the subject.
2. John - 1/5 - I found "What is a yulelog pagan" to be a complete waste of time and money. The author's writing style was incredibly disorganized and scattered, making it difficult to follow the main points of the book. The information provided about yulelogs and pagan traditions was superficial and lacked any real depth or substance. It felt more like reading a random collection of poorly written blog posts than an informative book on the subject. I was highly disappointed and regretted purchasing this book.
3. Emily - 2/5 - I was excited to learn more about yulelogs and their significance in pagan practices, but this book fell short of my expectations. The author seemed more interested in pushing their own personal beliefs and experiences rather than providing an objective exploration of the topic. As someone new to paganism, I was hoping for a more educational and informative read, but instead, I felt like I was being preached to. The lack of clear organization and structure in the book also made it difficult to follow. Overall, I found "What is a yulelog pagan" to be a letdown.
4. Michael - 1/5 - I cannot recommend "What is a yulelog pagan" to anyone interested in learning about yulelogs and paganism. The book was filled with grammatical errors and typos, making it difficult to comfortably read. Additionally, the information provided was vague and lacked depth, leaving me with more questions than answers. It felt like the author was simply regurgitating information they found online without providing any personal insights or unique perspectives. Overall, I found this book to be a huge disappointment and a waste of my time.