Marvel Comics introduced a new superhero team called The Union earlier this week, with the team comprised of heroes from across the United Kingdom. Yesterday, the entire team lineup for the UK-based team was revealed, along with character designs of each member.The announcements have brought with them a reaction out of fans and readers across the UK, with the team name, in particular, the cause of the biggest controversy. Commenters for and against the use of "The Union" name reportedly feel that Marvel is being tone-deaf to a very delicate political situation within the UK borders in the era of Brexit, which is when the UK withdrew from the European Union.When Marvel released individual character descriptions for members of The Union, writer Paul Grist added extra commentary. For example, Grist commented on the superhero Union Jack, and how the actual Union Jack and English flags are not the same.
The Union Jack (or Union Flag) has its supporters and detractors. However, Grist has taken time to respond politely to those who have questions regarding some of the early aesthetic choices made in The Union.
One character who may be more controversial than Union Jack is the Northern Ireland hero Snakes. His costume contains a dark hood that covers his entire head and face. Some have questioned if the hood is meant to be another form of balaclava, which translates to a ski mask in the US.
Grist explained how other superheroes like Spider-Man and Batman wear balaclavas, though the commenter believes Snakes' hood is a reference to Northern Ireland residents and their use of the headgear.
The Union #1 by Paul Grist and Andrea Di Vito goes on sale in May from Marvel Comics.
UPDATE 2/21/2020 6:02 PM ET: A sentence was modified to provide better accuracy.