I learned from Steenz that comics are not just consumable media – they’re also tools to build communities. By empowering more people to create, Steenz is expanding narrative possibilities and allowing for a richer tapestry of stories. These efforts can bring people together, foster creativity, and provide people with a voice that simply reading a comic might not. By providing more people with the opportunity to create, Steenz is allowing more people to express themselves.
Her approach to comics is multifaceted, emphasizing not only their entertainment value but also their potential for community engagement, education, and social advocacy. The idea of holding fan expos and community events around comics highlights the role comics play in bringing people together, and Steenz’s contribution to the comics community is significant. Community ties can be formed by shared interests, especially in niche or subcultures like comic genres or indie comics. Steenz’s advocacy for diversity in comics underscores their potential as a reflection of society. When people see themselves represented in media, they can validate their experiences and identities. Also, comics can serve as a way of fostering empathy and understanding because they teach others about experiences outside their own. As a creator and editor, Steenz’s role sheds light on the economic aspects of comics and the significance of supporting creators, allowing us to appreciate the wide variety of stories that go beyond mainstream comics. I gained a deeper understanding of comics through Steenz’s perspective and contributions to the world of comics as a powerful tool for storytelling, education, social change, and community development.