Remembering Trina Robbins: Pioneering Cartoonist, Writer, and Editor

Trina Robbins, a trailblazing cartoonist, writer, and editor who championed women in the male-dominated world of American comics, passed away on April 10 at the age of 85. Her daughter, Casey Robbins, confirmed that the cause of death was a stroke.

Robbins emerged as a prominent figure in the underground comix movement of the late 1960s and ’70s, challenging the status quo with her sophisticated female characters and unabashedly feminist perspective. She delved into themes of gender, sexuality, and politics, drawing inspiration from ancient cultures, science fiction, and mythical goddesses.

A storyteller at heart, Robbins sought to fill the void in the comic industry by telling stories that resonated with women, drawing on her own experiences as a young girl in Queens. She co-founded “It Ain’t Me, Babe,” the first comic book produced entirely by women, and later launched “Wimmen’s Comix,” a groundbreaking anthology series that showcased the work of female cartoonists.

Throughout her career, Robbins pushed boundaries and shattered stereotypes. She edited collections of women’s erotica, drew a full issue of Wonder Woman, and created Marvel comics characters aimed at young women. She also co-founded Friends of Lulu, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting women in comics.

In her later years, Robbins turned her focus to researching and celebrating overlooked female cartoonists, ensuring their contributions to the industry were not forgotten. She was inducted into the Will Eisner Comic Industry Awards Hall of Fame in 2013 and continued to publish books, including graphic novels and memoirs.

Robbins leaves behind a lasting legacy as a pioneer for women in comics. Her impact on the industry is immeasurable, and her dedication to amplifying marginalized voices will continue to inspire future generations of creators. As she once said, “The misogyny is still there, but to counter it, we have smart, young, feminist women on the internet raising their collective voices when they find sexism — and their voices are heard!”