Ep. 17: Kristoffer Hughes on the Non-Binary Nature of Druidry

The Queer Spirituality Podcast

About The Guest(s):

Kristoffer Hughes is the chief of the Anglesey Druid Order, a Druid graduate of the Order of Bards, Ovates, and Druids, and an award-winning author on Celtic spirituality and Druidry. He is also a Welsh language television presenter and stand-up comedian.

Summary:

Kristoffer Hughes, the chief of the Anglesey Druid Order, joins host Julian Crosson-Hill on the Queer Spirituality podcast to discuss queer spirituality and his journey as a Druid. Kristoffer explains that queer spirituality is integral to his Druidry and how it informs his perception of the world. He shares his spiritual journey, growing up in Wales, where Druidry is endemic in the culture, and finding a home in Druidry after feeling rejected by Christianity. Kristoffer also discusses the different aspects of Druidry, including the roles of Bards, Ovates, and Druids and how they interweave. He highlights the inclusive nature of Druidry and its celebration of queerness, emphasizing that Druidry is inherently non-binary and allows individuals to forge relationships with deities that reflect their unique talents and abilities. He also explores the presence of gender non-conforming figures in Celtic mythology and the importance of recognizing that queer people have always been a part of history. He encourages queer individuals in America interested in Druidry to explore resources such as ADF and emphasizes the fluidity and flexibility of Druidry in defining relationships with deities. Kristoffer concludes by sharing his parting wisdom, encouraging individuals to be honest with themselves, strive to be their best version, and treat others with kindness and respect.

Key Takeaways:

• Queer spirituality is integral to Kristoffer's Druidry and informs his perception of the world.
• Druidry is an animistic polytheistic tradition that perceives the world as sacred and allows individuals to forge relationships with deities that reflect their unique talents and abilities.
• Celtic mythology contains gender non-conforming figures that challenge gender norms and highlight the presence of queerness throughout history.
• Druidry is an inclusive tradition that celebrates queerness and provides a safe space for LGBTQ+ individuals.
• Queer individuals in America can explore resources such as ADF to learn more about Druidry and its inclusivity.

Quotes:

"Druidry is inherently non-binary. We don't fall into the same categories as other binary systems." - Kristoffer Hughes.
"We perceive that each of us somehow reflects that which is sacred." - Kristoffer Hughes.
"We've always been here. We've been here since the very beginning." - Kristoffer Hughes.
"Try not to be an asshole and be nice, employ charm, and treat the world as you would want it to treat you." - Kristoffer Hughes.

Links for Kristoffer:
Instagram
Facebook
The Book of Druidry
The Yuletide Tarot
Cerridwen: Celtic Goddess of Inspiration

Links for Queer Spirituality
Website
Instagram
Facebook
Queer Spirituality Facebook Group