My name is Mark Waid. I’m a comics writer. In September, I was sued by a man named Richard Meyer, one of the perceived leaders of an online movement called “ComicsGate” that I and many comics professionals strongly feel has unfairly and offensively targeted women, people of color, and LGBTQ+ creators working in our industry. (You can read more about some perspectives on ComicsGate in the Washington Post and on Inverse.) Mr. Meyer alleges that I deliberately and singlehandedly blocked the publication of one of his comic books. I did no such thing, and I believe this lawsuit is his effort to try and intimidate and silence those of us who stand up publicly against bigotry and racism and who continue to defend diverse creators from harassment..
Mr. Meyer is also suing me for defamation, claiming that in taking a stand against ComicsGate, I have defamed him by allegedly referring to him as a “racist,” “serial harasser of minorities,” and as “affiliated with white supremacists.” Here is just a small sampling of Mr. Meyer’s social media posts that can be judged by their content:
 |
 |
 |
You can learn more about the lawsuit--and Mr. Meyer’s online presence--here, here, and here.
Even though I am confident that Mr. Meyer’s claims are entirely meritless, lawsuits are expensive and time-consuming. If I were wealthy, a lawsuit wouldn’t be much of an issue, but I work, y’know, IN COMICS. My expenses are already substantial and could easily run into six figures. Still, for nearly 40 years, I’ve been lucky enough to write stories featuring heroes we all know--characters like Superman and Captain America--who taught me at an early age to stand up for kindness, equality, and tolerance. I have never backed down from bullies, especially those who denigrate my friends, colleagues and the values our community stands for, and while I am not a rich man, you have my solemn promise that I will fight this fight no matter the personal cost.
But I’m going to need your help.
If you believe, as I do, that a person of color should be allowed to write and draw comics without being called a “race hustler” or a “minstrel show” performer, donate to my GoFundMe legal fund [link]. Send that message. If you believe, as I do, that a woman should have the right to work in this or any industry without being called a “c**dumpster,” donate [link]. Make yourself heard. If you believe that your gender or sexual preference should have no bearing on what and how you choose to create, donate https://www.gofundme.com/mark-waids-legal-defense-fund Stand with me.
It isn’t just about me; if we don’t fight online harassment, it only becomes nastier and more powerful. This is an important fight. Again, you can donate here:
Thank you for having my back.
