I've been debating on whether to publicize this appellation specifically, but I figure that's the point of it. I've been witching in the immediate area for a little while now. But that's not what makes me The Witch of Times Square. (This post is about this title specifically; if you want to know a bit more about my practice, go here).
Titles and names in witchcraft are a little funny. Traditionally, a witch selects a "magical" or "witch's" name while they are just getting started with the craft. It's a name that you typically keep secret outside of the magical community and/or your magical endeavors. There are also organizations of witches out there, including various temples and covens. Within these organizations, new names are often given to show growth in the craft and attachment to the organization in question. And, lastly, sometimes a name finds its way to you.
I have many names that I resonate with. But I only have a few specific "witch" names; one given, one taken and one chosen. The "given" name was via a vision and the chosen name was... chosen. Within the NYC coven community, I use my given witch name and reserve my chosen name for my specific coven. "Dewy" is technically used as a witch's name sometimes (like in this post), but I use it regularly outside of a magical context.
As with anything in witchcraft, the exact origins of this practice are a bit fuzzy. But an underlying principle is that you, as a person, have the right to name yourself. You are just as much as an individual as anyone else on the planet.
However, a name is not necessarily the same thing as a title (I have a few of those too). For example, many witches (including yours truly) take on the title of "High Priestess" to internalize that, due to our studies, we have our own inherent spiritual authority.
So, you may be asking, on whose authority can I claim this title? Mine. Based on my research, no one has claimed it. There have obviously been witches in Times Square, but no one has called themselves "The Witch of Times Square." So I do. To phrase it in a more witchy way: I dare.
Pictured: It's official. Shoutout to my personal savior Jesus on the other billboard.
Oh, yeah. filmon? It's not a name. That's a taunt. Film on.