Matching 50 MCU characters with each of the 50 states
By Mark Lynch
41. Okoye – South Carolina
South Carolina became the 8th state to join the Union on May 23, 1788. The Palmetto State has two mottos on their seal: “Dum spiro, spero” meaning “While I breathe, I hope” and ““Animis opibusque parati,” which means, “Prepared in mind and in resources.” Both of these are the keys to success and happiness.
It doesn’t just highlight the hope or the work because both are needed. It also shows that you have to be prepared physically and mentally for a task. A state with this kind of motto needs a character who embodies hope, preparation, and readiness.
Okoye became a star in the Black Panther movie. To some (this writer included) she was the best part of the movie. She was always prepared for whatever was coming her way and ready to defend Wakanda. While this meant she had to do some things that didn’t agree with her, Okoye was honor bound to Wakanda. However, she was prepared for the inevitable.
When Killmonger showed his true colors, Okoye and the Dora Milaje were more than ready to take on Killmonger and his forces. Okoye represents everything that the seal stands for. Hope that her country will do the right thing when the time comes. And prepared to mentally and physically to fight and die for what she believes in.