Welcome to this week’s installment of Geek Girl Authority Crush of the Week, wherein we shine a spotlight on strong women who inspire us. Now, this not only includes fictional female characters in geeky media, but creators as well. These ladies are a prime example of female empowerment and how crucial it is for kids to have said example to follow.
DISCLAIMER: The following is rife with spoilers galore for Syfy’s space romp Vagrant Queen. You’ve been warned. Proceed with caution.
Elida
Fast Facts:
Elida was born as Eldaya Al-Feyr (Adriyan Rae) on Arriopa. She grew up under her mother’s watchful eye. Elida also underwent extensive fight training with caretaker Hath (Colin Moss). She was unceremoniously deposed as Queen of Arriopa when The Republic overtook her kingdom. Thus, Elida, her mother and Hath were forced to go into hiding. Eventually, Commander Lazaro (Paul du Toit) killed Elida’s mother Xevelyn. Elida spent the majority of her adulthood on the lam from Lazaro. She took up the scavenging trade as a means of income. Later, Elida’s former cohort reappeared claiming that her mother was never murdered. In fact, she was being held captive by The Republic.
So, Elida set forth on a mission to rescue her mother. The aforementioned cohort Isaac (Tim Rozon) and a mechanic named Amae (Alex McGregor) tagged along. In addition, Elida reunited with Hath and a handful of loyalists. Said loyalists are hellbent on Elida being reinstated as Queen of Arriopa. However, she prefers a life free of politics and crowns.
The Real Deal:
Now, Elida is the real deal. She’s immensely loyal to her loved ones. This is evident in episode 104 when Isaac is captured by Lazaro. Hath urged her to leave Isaac behind, but Elida dove headfirst into danger to rescue her friend. Not to mention, Elida is very street savvy, resourceful, and the essence of tenacity. She’s a survivor, and has spent a significant chunk of time navigating the galaxy by herself. Elida is a skilled fighter. That’s a handy resource to have when a violent political group is constantly in pursuit of you. In addition, she has a massive heart (figuratively speaking). She may be reticent to wear it on her sleeve, but that doesn’t mean she’s a completely closed book. Her burgeoning romance with Amae tugs at the heartstrings.
Why She Matters:
Alright, why does Elida matter? She’s a powerful, queer black woman kicking ass and taking names on a sci-fi series. While Vagrant Queen‘s narrative may be slightly derivative, this particular character is something we’ve never seen before on television. We’re privy to a whole new perspective, and it’s a breath of fresh air. This is a major milestone for people of color and the LGBTQIA+ community. Of course, we still have a ways to go when it comes to diversity and representation. I hope Elida’s presence will usher in a new era of inclusivity in media.
So, be like Elida. Stand strong in your convictions. Don’t be afraid to rely on your support system when times are tough. Never leave anyone behind. Fight like a girl. Oh, and keep chipping away at your witty one-liners. It never hurts to have a cache of them at the ready.
RELATED: Vagrant Queen’s Adriyan Rae Is Kicking Open the Door of Opportunity
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What I do: I'm GGA's Managing Editor, a Senior Contributor, and Press Coordinator. I manage, contribute, and coordinate. Sometimes all at once. Joking aside, I oversee day-to-day operations for GGA, write, edit, and assess interview opportunities/press events.
Who I am: Before moving to Los Angeles after studying theater in college, I was born and raised in Amish country, Ohio. No, I am not Amish, even if I sometimes sport a modest bonnet.
Bylines in: Tell-Tale TV, Culturess, Sideshow Collectibles, and inkMend on Medium.
Critic: Rotten Tomatoes, CherryPicks, and the Hollywood Creative Alliance.
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