X-Men fans think they’ve found Marvel’s new Storm – Pose star and living trans legend Dominique Jackson
X-Men fans have signed a petition to have Marvel cast Pose star and trans activist Dominique Jackson as Storm in its next mutant movie.
Storm, also known as Ororo Munroe, is a powerful mutant who can control the weather and atmosphere. She has previously been played by Halle Berry and Alexandra Shipp — but fans have now decided who should wear her cape in a future film.
“Cast Dominique Jackson as Storm” demands a petition signed by thousands of X-Men fans.
The petition, started by Javier Enriquez, says: “With the recent merger between 20th Century Fox and Disney, the X-Men franchise could be rebooted with new faces that correct Hollywood’s history of racism and transphobia by giving a chance to Black trans actors.”
I’d RUN to the theater to see Dominique Jackson give us the regality mixed in with true GRIT that encapsulates the character of Ms Monroe! Y’all get in line or get left behind! Sign!
Walt Disney: Cast Dominique Jackson As Storm https://t.co/6TiCqAIE2X via @Change
— josh (@jshndrw) June 17, 2020
It cites Jackson’s life story, activism and acting career as reasons that she would be perfect for the role.
“If there’s anyone that could fill Storm’s cape it would be Ms Jackson,” it continues.
“From fleeing persecution as a transgender woman in her home country of Trinidad, to being a pioneer and leader for the Ballroom and LGBTQ community, Ms Jackson knows what it’s like to feel to be an outcast, only to find strength in community.
“Ms Jackson’s journey has all the makings of a true X-Men – compassion, nerve, and leadership.
“Appearing in the Emmy-nominated drama Pose as Elektra, Ms Jackson knows how to command any scene she walks into while also being able to deliver strong witted monologues off the top of her head just like Storm does before summoning a bolt of lightning.
“How amazing would it be to have Jackson deliver the same type of reads with the added power of lightning and thunder? It would be epic.”
I would like to announce that I'm running as an independent MP with the sole aim of campaigning to make Dominique Jackson play Storm— lieutenant brigadier general cuntalina badussy 🌝 (@daddyxanax_) June 18, 2020
The petition also highlights the importance of trans representation in mainstream Hollywood films.
“Casting a Black trans women as the iconic character would reach out to new demographics by depicting the heroine as a strong and unapologetic leader who, like the rest of us, is also human.”
Dominique Jackson said the petition for her to be cast as Storm “made her day”.
Responding to the petition on Instagram, Dominique Jackson wrote: “Just saw this and would like to thank you all for the confidence you have in me and the support you give!
“It’s not even about if Marvel sees this but just knowing that you are valued is what is important and makes us all feel human and respected as a part of community and society!
“So I implore you, as you uplift and empower me so should you uplift and empower those around you who worry every day if it could be their last.
“Thank you all for making my day, I have always looked to Storm as representation of my true self!”