Black Women's Bodily Autonomy, Sexual Freedom, and Pleasure

This text explores scholarship, practice, and advocacy for Black women’s pursuit of bodily autonomy, sexual freedom, and pleasure. Inspired by Megan Thee Stallion’s song, “Hot Girl Summer,” and pleasure activism, Dr. Clarissa Francis (“The Real Hot Girl Doc”) examines the cultural and social impacts of “hot girl” music and its transformative effects on Black women’s sexual liberation journeys. Francis introduces readers to the Hot Girl Movement, addressing intergenerational trauma, denial of bodily autonomy, and pleasure politics.

This book offers a historical review and current documentation of Black women’s role in the evolving movement for sexual liberation in the United States, with a particular focus on Atlanta, Georgia. Chapters delve into the history of systemic oppression, presenting research on Black women’s experiences with gendered racism while demonstrating the socio-cultural influences shaping Black women’s sexual liberation. The book centers Black women’s narratives featuring the work of sexologists, clinicians, somatic practitioners, and community organizers in guiding Black women to achieve sexual liberation.The final chapter outlines conclusions of the research on the Hot Girl Movement and provides recommendations for participating in and supporting this Movement.

This interdisciplinary text is essential reading for scholars, clinicians, healing practitioners, birthworkers, and activists, including those in fields of sexuality, sex therapy, sociology, gender studies, Black/Africana studies, public health, and social justice. Exercises and additional resources are available on the product page under Support Material.