The Comic Book Store Championing Diversity

Ariell Johnson doesn’t wear a cape. But to many comic book fans and artists, she’s a superhero. Johnson is the first black woman to own a comic book shop on the East Coast. Her Amalgam Comics & Coffeehouse in Philadelphia sells comic books like “Harriet Tubman: Demon Slayer” and “The Almighty Street Team” that aren’t readily available in other stores. Amalgam is much more than a place to shop. Johnson, who calls herself “the head nerd in charge,” has built a fun and welcoming community for all.