Oversexualization & Fetishism

Fetishism Oversexualization 1. To sexualize excessively 1. Fetishism is characterized as a disorder when there is a pathological assignment of sexual fixation, fantasies or behaviors toward an inanimate object -- frequently an item of clothing -- such as underclothing or a high-heeled shoe -- or to nongenital body parts -- such as the foot.

“The Asian Woman Fetish” : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KoylFQhthfA Thoughts…

“The Misrepresented and Hypersexualized Latina”- Courtney Perales “The “spicy Latina” ascription is also sometimes seen as innocuous: a stereotype that we Latinas should appreciate as a flattering compliment. However, people fail to see that this label leads to an equally damaging conception of Latinas being a fetish; a hot, mysterious prize to be won. We are seen as these sensual creatures, ready for courtship with any man who is willing embark on an enticing journey to the unknown. […] we are thrown to the side and subsequently devalued and disregarded as having fulfilled our purpose of submitting to their male domination. This then feeds into the idea of how certain minority subgroups, like Latina women, are further marginalized through fetishization to the point of losing their sexual agency and feeling that their value is solely located in sexually satisfying men.”

Sara Bartmaan https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UEDrmaoPuKs

Portrayal of WoC What roles do we see today in different shows/movies that portray WoC in stereotypical roles? What influences do stereotypes & gender roles play in “fetishization” and “over-sexualization”? In this day & age do Women of Color have any sexual agency?

Sexism & Patriarchy

Sexism Prejudice, stereotyping, or discrimination, typically against women, on the basis of sex. Patriarchy A system of society or government in which men hold the power and women are largely excluded from it.

“4 Messed Up Sexist Things That Happen to Women of Color” - Erika Sanchez Higher Wage Gap and Rates of Poverty: African-American women make only 62 cents, and Hispanic women only 54 cents, for every dollar earned by white, non- Hispanic men. Higher Health Disparities: Poverty, lack of access to healthcare, cultural attitudes and behaviors are some of the barriers facing many minority women in accessing preventive care and diabetes management. Racially Charged, Sexist Stereotypes in the Workplace: The angry/sassy black woman stereotype. The spicy and fiery Latina trope. Our Bodies Are Perceived as Dangerous: The notion of blackness as sexually deviant traces its roots back to slavery. Latina bodies are often perceived as a threat due to their “uncontrollable fertility,” and are blamed for overpopulation.

“Patriarchy”- Vanessa Marco https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qIUh43Jc5f4

Questions… Can men experience sexism? (thinking about the definition of sexism & patriarchy?) Should men be allies in the fight for equality for women? If so what should their role be? How can we work to dismantle gender constructs that devalue women?