Belly dance is a much loved dance form in Pagan communities. It resonates. What does belly dance mean in Pagan cultural thought, and why? How have historical, Orientalist imagery and romanticized ideas of "primitiveness" come into play in forming Pagan ideas ideas about belly dance? Most importantly how can we minimize harm and potential perpetuation of toxic racialized stereotypes when interacting with belly dance? Is the act of incorporating belly dance into Pagan community inherently harmful in itself or is it a safe and positive form of creative expression for all? In this workshop, I present my undergraduate thesis in which I've explored and critiqued the intersection of belly dance and Paganism in the modern era. Analysis of my original survey research on Pagan belly dance will also be presented. The workshop will conclude with a discussion and Q and A.
