Meet
Raven Moon
Armed with ranged weapons and super sight, this Lady Superhero works with Oregon's Community Superheros and guards the neighborhoods of Beaverton, OR.
Deirdra: Who or what inspired you to become a superhero?
Raven Moon: I was raised on Superman, Wonder Woman, Batman, and the X Men. When I was small I wanted to have real superpowers and I wanted to magic to be real. I’ve also felt compelled to help people for as long as I can remember. I want to be a part of a community that looks out for each other. Sometimes you’ve got to be the one to take action when you want to see something happen.
I first learned about the Real Life Superheroes movement when I saw a brief news story featuring Real Life Superheroes in Seattle. I was completely fascinated with the concept but I never thought I would have the opportunity to do the same. My fascination was sparked again when I bumped into Guardian Shield last summer as he patrolled my neighborhood. He immediately introduced himself and shook my hand and I talked to him a little bit about what he was doing. I tried to find him on Facebook but I couldn’t and then I saw a story that was being passed around by many of my Facebook friends. It was a news story about Guardian Shield patrolling the City of Beaverton. I looked him up once more and messaged him and that very same evening I was heading out my front door to meet him for my first patrol.
Deirdra: How did you come up with your superhero name?
Raven Moon: I wanted a name that reflected the fact that we patrolled at night and a name that also held a bit of magic.
I am a huge animal lover. I’ve been surrounded by pets all my life. I love backyard bird watching and watching local wildlife thrive, even in a busy city. Hearing Coyotes howling in Beaverton is a reminder that there’s animals of all kinds around us. I chose the name Raven because ravens are highly intelligent, wise, and clever. Raven Moon captured my love of animals, the night, and it holds an air of mystery.
Deirdra: Who made your costume?
Raven Moon: My costume is pieced together with things I already had as well as new additions that I could easily attain and afford. We are all on a budget, there’s no Bruce Wayne among us unfortunately. It’s been a piece by piece process. Each time I find or receive new gear or clothing it brings the look together. I have a distinct picture in my mind of the end result and hopefully as each item is added it’ll make that look come to life. I am also a fan of multiple looks with the same general color combination. Don’t be surprised if my long purple hair is suddenly short. Especially in those hot summer months.
Deirdra: If you could have any superpower what would it be?
Raven Moon: If I could have any superpower it would have to be the ability to teleport. I love the idea of being able to get somewhere instantly as well as avoid potential hazards and remove people from harm. Plus, no traffic right?
Deirdra: What do you hope to accomplish?
Raven Moon: I hope to inspire others to stand up for their community and that all of us can be superheroes. You don’t need actual superpowers or a lot of money to do this. You just need to have the desire to make the world a better place and the motivation to make it happen. If I can spark a few others to join in the movement I’d consider that a wonderful accomplishment.
What do you for your day job?
Raven Moon: I am an average person. I work full time in an office providing fiscal support. Super exciting I know, welcome to the world of finance! I actually enjoy my job and my co workers are great.
Deirdra: Are the police supportive or do they see you as a lawless vigilante?
Raven Moon: I’ve only met a couple of Officers in my own neighborhood. They seemed accepting and kind. They are already stretched so thin that another pair of eyes is helpful. I’m definitely not a vigilante, I’m not out seeking revenge or to right the wrongs of super criminals. I’m here to make sure that you can wake up in the morning and not have your car broken into and to make sure someone else is out there watching out for suspicious activity so you can get home safely.
Deirdra: Are you in danger by doing what you do?
Raven Moon: I don’t see myself in any great danger. The streets aren’t nearly as scary and dangerous as they are made out to be. Mind you, I am well aware that there are bad people out there, but I’ve yet to be confronted, threatened, or frightened by anyone looking to do me harm. For the most part I’ve only been met by friendly, although sometimes surprised, people who sincerely appreciate us being here and watching out for them.
Deirdra: Are you stopping crimes and helping people?
Raven Moon :I think for the most part we serve as a deterrent and as a skilled neighborhood watch. I've never personally stopped a bad guy. I’m fairly new to the Real Life Superhero world so it might be just a matter of time. I’m thankful that for the most part our patrols are quiet and uneventful.
Deirdra: What does your family think?
Raven Moon: My immediate family is very supportive, as a matter of fact, they think it’s great. .
Deirdra: Does your mom know you are doing this?
Raven Moon: Hahaha, Yes my mom knows. As any truly loving and caring mother would, she worries. If I can remember her reaction when I told her it went something along the lines of Grimace “Oh honey, be careful.” Don’t worry mom I’ll be OK.
Deirdra: Do you have a weakness?
Raven Moon: I certainly have a weakness for some of the actors that play superheroes. Arrow and Wolverine especially!
Of course I also have a weakness for animals. Yes, I’m the type of girl that will try to make someone stop their car if an animal might be hit. The hardest part of this weakness is that it’s hard to snuggle an animal when most of your uniform is black and their fur is not. What can I do? Animals are my kryptonite. Kittens have the ability to turn me into mush, use this information wisely.
Deirdra: How long have you been doing this?
Raven Moon: My first patrol happened at the end of last October. So I’m coming up on six months. It’s taken this long to fall into a routine and I’m almost at my first 24 hours of patrol time. That means I’ll be upgraded from sidekick to Co-Hero. Very exciting!
I have full intentions of doing this for a good long while I'm only just beginning.
Deirdra: What is the most frustrating thing about being a superhero?
Raven Moon: The most difficult part of being a superhero is trying to get up in the morning after a night of patrolling. At that point coffee is my best friend.
Seriously though, It’s frustrating when people see us as silly or goofy instead of the genuine people we are. We truly care about others and their safety. We’re out there putting ourselves between strangers and potential danger. We do this for you, we want you to be safe. So please understand our mission, we are serious.
Deirdra: Do you keep a secret identity, is so, why? Is it hard to keep a secret identity?
Raven Moon: There aren’t many people who know what I do. Only a handful know about my double life. I don’t want to be harassed or have my family be potential targets, so it’s extremely important that I maintain my separate identities. It can be tricky to keep such a secret, but it’s also a little fun.
Deirdra: How did those close to you react when you became a superhero?
Raven Moon: Almost everyone who knows about this is supportive, except of course my mom. First reactions tend to be those of concern but once they understand that I’m not on the hunt to take down evil masterminds singlehandedly they think it’s pretty great.
Deirdra: Who is your hero?
Raven Moon: Wow, I have so many heroes. The men and women who serve in the military, doctors, nurses, and first responders who keep us safe.
I also admire the people that continue to better their lives everyday even when faced with harsh realities such as high rent and cost of living. I greatly respect single parents and those who face poverty and still manage to keep hope alive for a better future. You are heroes to your families, keep on fighting!
Deirdra: What do you want the people of your community to know?
Raven Moon: Please never think to yourself that it’s none of your business. If you see someone who needs help do something! Even if it means calling the police from a safe distance. Follow your instinct, you could be the life or death difference to someone who needs you. You can be a hero too. Check out Raven Moon's Fan Page: https://www.facebook.
