Due to societal and religious factors, women are subject to sexual regulation, and judgement. Not only do social standards hinder a woman’s ability to engage openly in sexual activity, but also the fear of being unsafe. Women are viewed as objects publicly, harassed and objectified. From a young age, girls are subjected to dress codes, as to not “distract” their male counterparts. As a result, women are subliminally told that their body is something to be ashamed of, and “keep pure”. Furthermore, because of this subjugation, women feel as though embracing one’s sexual desires and sexuality is deviant and forbidden. They grow up believing that sexual activity, and the exploration of their bodies is “wrong”, or impure of them. However, when one identifies with their primal instincts, and understands them as part of their individuality, there is a sense of freedom. For the women who participate in sex work, the social stereotypes essentially dissipate, as they embrace their sexual identity and freedom, as they should. There is no shame in recognizing and taking advantage of one’s sexuality. There is a sense of empowerment when a woman allows herself to use her sexuality. She can feel loved, not only by others, but by herself. Instead of body shaming, or being emotionally attached to the connotations embedded within a woman’s sexuality, she can be closer with her own in-dependency and individuality. Although social decorum and the acceptance of women’s sexuality has a long way to progress, sex work transgresses those social bounds, and can help to evolve the ever growing knowledge and acceptance of women’s sexuality. By Lady Anonymous |