The Pride Tarot is a collaborative, fully illustrated 78-card deck created to honor the achievements and spirit of the LGBTQ+ movement. Inspired by Pridefest, this deck serves as a powerful tool for exploring psychology, love, and the past, present, and future. Published by U.S. Games Systems, the deck highlights the unique and creative talents of LGBTQ+ members and their allies, emphasizing the company's support for the community. The deck is designed to follow the structure of the traditional Rider-Waite-Smith Tarot, making it accessible to readers familiar with standard tarot symbolism while introducing new, story-based imagery relevant to modern experiences.
The creation of the Pride Tarot involved 45 diverse artists from around the globe who shared their poignant and powerful stories. These narratives are woven into the cards, with some portraying real-life heroes, role models, and personal experiences. The deck’s imagery focuses on themes of energy, empowerment, compassion, and the search for self. A distinctive visual motif in the deck is the inclusion of images of two women and a bull in the corners of each card. This symbolism represents the need to conquer oneself and avoid being dominated by others, suggesting a metaphor for inner strength and resilience.
In addition to the cards, the Pride Tarot includes a comprehensive 192-page illustrated guidebook. This book provides card descriptions, introductions to the artists, and instructions for a unique "Parade Card Spread." The deck also features an extra Pride Flag Rainbow card, which can be utilized in six-card readings. The publisher has demonstrated commitment to the community by making contributions to organizations such as The Trevor Project, which supports struggling young people facing isolation and marginalization.
Symbolism and Imagery
The Pride Tarot draws its core meaning from the celebration of LGBTQ+ achievements and the pursuit of self. The deck’s imagery is described as having a dramatic, colorful theme that captures the essence of the traditional tarot while offering a fresh perspective.
- Core Themes: The cards symbolize energy, empowerment, compassion, and the search for self. The fragility of the cards is presented as a metaphor for inner strength.
- Corner Motifs: The consistent presence of two women and a bull in the corners of the cards signifies the conquest of the self and the refusal to be dominated by others.
- Artistic Collaboration: The deck features artwork from 45 diverse artists, each bringing their personal stories and perspectives to the imagery. This collaborative approach emphasizes community and shared experience.
- Nature and Abstract Focus: While many tarot decks rely heavily on human figures, the Pride Tarot also incorporates nature and abstract symbols, creating an ethereal feeling that users have praised.
Deck Structure and Components
The Pride Tarot adheres to the standard structure of a 78-card tarot deck, ensuring continuity with traditional readings while offering unique content.
- Card Count: The deck consists of 78 cards.
- Dimensions: Each card measures 2.75" x 4.75".
- Guidebook: A 192-page illustrated booklet is included, detailing card meanings, artist bios, and the "Parade Card Spread."
- Special Card: An extra "Pride Flag Rainbow" card is included for use in specific spreads.
- Publication Details: The deck was published on April 1, 2020, with an ISBN of 978-1-64671-003-4.
User Experience and Community Impact
Feedback on the Pride Tarot highlights its emotional resonance and high production quality. The deck is noted for its ability to connect deeply with users, particularly those within the LGBTQ+ community.
- Quality and Durability: Users report that the cards are of high quality and arrive in perfect condition, despite some vague complaints about the thinness of the box.
- Emotional Connection: A review cited on Amazon mentioned that a 14-year-old member of the LGBTQ+ community connected deeply with the cards, finding them thorough and symbolic.
- Social Impact: Purchasing the deck contributes to a larger cause. U.S. Games Systems donates proceeds to foundations that help LGBTQ+ individuals, specifically targeting the support of young people in crisis. This transforms the purchase into an act of support for the community.
Conclusion
The Pride Tarot serves as a bridge between traditional tarot wisdom and contemporary social movements. It offers a unique, story-based approach to divination that emphasizes empowerment and self-conquest through its specific symbolism and collaborative artistry. Beyond its function as a tool for introspection, the deck represents a tangible contribution to the welfare of the LGBTQ+ community through its charitable donation model. For spiritual seekers and tarot enthusiasts looking for a deck that celebrates diversity and resilience, the Pride Tarot provides a meaningful and visually striking option.