I just don't see a way to convince someone of a subculture's respectability when they've already formed a bias in their minds as to what qualifies as respectable.
*nods* I think you've hit it right there. Most Pagans I know are not button down shirt conformists, which I believe is what is commonly known as respectable (i.e. like everyone else). That they are delightful, good people doesn't really matter to someone who isn't open minded or intelligent enough to understand a person with a different viewpoint can be someone 'to associate with'.
As an artist, I am accepted in many circles without a problem because an artist has cultural permission to be 'odd'. It is almost expected of me. Physicists and suchlike have that social permission as well, they can look, act, and think differently without being outcasts. Narrow minded people will accept them because everyone else does, but tolerance generally ends there.
The OP does have her work cut out for her.
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