- About this Syllabus: The goal of this syllabus is to give a brief overview of how I see sexuality being a societal construction. Not only do I want to speak about sources that examine and solidify how these constructed norms came to be/have an impact on us, I want to focus on those who are out in the world working to dismantle these norms. First, I’ll link some resources that explain some of the ways that sexuality has been constructed, and what impact that can have on us. Next I’ll provide some links to various artists, writers, performers, etc., that are working to dismantle our “sexual guidelines.”
Where did these “sexual guidelines” come from, and how are they impacting our sexualities?
- We live in a patriarchal society, this is something that no one can deny. Due to the nature of this patriarchy, many decisions about sexuality, particularly that of women, have been decided by a male dominated opinion. An unfortunate yet excellent example of this is the birth of modern day gynecology – which grew out of the exploitation and abuse of black women being held as slaves. The very basis of women’s sexual and reproductive care stems from the exploitation of our bodies. James Marion Sims can be faulted with start of this abuse and exploitation. “Black Subjectivity and the Origins of Gynecology” (Rachel Zellars) and “Historian uncovers gynecology’s brutal roots in slavery” (Kara Manke) are some great sources that shed some light on this practice, as well as highlight author Dierdre Cooper Owens, who is working to expose these brutal origins.
- Sexuality is controlled in almost every sense. A sector of this that I have noticed gets very little attention is the population of incarcerated Americans. “Sexuality and Sexual Health in Prisons” (James Horley) exposes the sexual repression and abuse that goes on in American prisons. Horley also exposes ways in which allowing sexual preference and expression in prisons might work to create a more peaceful and productive environment for all involved.
- Heteronormativity is also a way in which society is shaping our sexuality for us. “The Normativity of the Concept of Heteronormativity” (Marcus Herz and Thomas Johansson) goes over heteronormativity and hegemonic masculinity and how it impacts our own sexuality. “Heteronormativity and Sexual Partnering among Bisexual Latino Men” (Miguel Muñoz-Laboy, et al.,) speaks about the effect that culturally normalized masculinity has on one’s ability to meet sexual partners of various genders.
How do we take back our sexuality? How do we undo societal standards and create visibility?
- Seducing The Satellite* is a poem written by Robin Caretti. This piece is about seduction, and the many ways that seduction is used and expressed. Sometimes it’s pure desire, sometimes it’s playful, sometimes it’s for release. This piece helps to normalize exploring your seductive side with no shame.
- Sins Invalid is a group that works to highlight the beautiful and empowering sexuality of people across all spectrums and walks of life, with an emphasis on folx with disabilities. They work to dismantle the ideas of who is normal, sexy, or beautiful in order to bring recognition to the unique beauty of each individual. Sins Invalid breaks through constructed norms of beauty and sex through performance art, these performances also reinforce the idea that sexual expression is okay! Click the title above to check out a blog that offers a little backstory! Follow various links on the webpage to learn more about Sins Invalid.
- Dirty Computer is a visual art piece by Janelle Monáe that works to highlight the ways in which the female body and mind have been reduced down to a specific piece of technology that work to uphold our societies patriarchal rule and structural norms. This piece is a unique yet excellent use of speculative fiction.
- “Women, It’s Time to Own Your Sexuality” (Vicki Larson) is a piece about, well, women owning their sexuality. Larson speaks about the taboo of pleasure and the intricate nature of sexuality and sexual partners. This is a great piece for opening your mind ot the idea of taking back your sexuality and using it for your own pleasure and joy.
- Lastly, I want to highlight the Queer Zine Archive Project. Follow the link to explore their website, and be sure to browse through the Zine Archive. I have a special appreciate for this site. It works to service the queer community specifically, as well as gives an outlet for queer artists to explore their talents for themselves and for an audience that needs their sense of community. Queer artwork works to dismantle constructed heterosexual norms and creates visibility for a multitude of gender and sexual identities.
