DC comics is relaunching Batwoman but with a twist. The new Batwoman is a lesbian. Batwoman will be revived in July as part of the 52 weekly comic book series. The move is part of DC Comics' bid to introduce sexually and ethnically diverse characters. According to an AP report, the move is not just about having a gay character. It is part of a wider attempt by the comic book publisher to increase overall diversity in the DC universe by featuring more individuals from different minority groups. The report further states that DC Comics is trying to get a better cross-section of their readership and will include other Hispanic, African-American, and Asian characters as the series plays out. According to the New York Times, DC Comics is re-launching Blue Beetle, formerly a white hero, as a Mexican teenager with mystical powers. And Marvel Comics, DC's great rivals, have introduced the character Luke Cage to its best-selling New Avengers--he is a black street-fighter who last month married his white girlfriend.

Batwoman has been making appearances in Batman comics since 1956. She was murdered by an assassin in 1979. The new Batwoman will keep the same name, Kathy Kane, but will be dramatically different from the original. The original Batwoman did not have much of an identity. She made occasional appearances in Batman comics. The new Batwoman will be a sexy redhead, extremely confident in bat-mask and cape, skin-tight black outfit, and high-heeled knee-high red boots. She will be a sexy socialite from Gotham City who has some connection with Bruce Wayne (Batman) and a love affair in the past with Renee Montoya, a former police detective.

In the series, Batwoman reappears when Batman, Superman, and Wonder Woman disappear from Gotham City. Taking advantage of this lack of superheroes, a big crime group called Intergang comes to Gotham City. In issue number 11 of the 52 series, Batwoman takes on the gang along with Renee Montoya.

Of course, the announcement has caused quite a sensation with many fans offended. But the people at DC Comics are confident that the character they have created for the new Batwoman will make for a great story.