This piece was re-generated for commentary and further illustration of Saartjie's story. This work also provides stronger visuals for the author, DeDe Hunt's, allegory of Black womanhood; however, this is not intended to be the author's exact perspective.
Saartjie is one of the first victims of sex and human trafficking by European pillagers. Author DeDe Hunt has done a beautiful job at orating her story and encouraging Black women to reject objectification, especially from Black men who have capitalized off of our degradation in the name of hip-hop culture. This narrative was posted almost two decades ago, yet as we revisit this piece, societal values may or may not have changed.
Do you believe Black women are truly victimized by hyper-sexualization, or is there a reclamation element to embracing our sexual identities in an effort to reinforce our right to body autonomy? Or could it be both? How should we define ourselves? How can we adopt healthy sexual behaviors and imaging without abandoning our dignity and self-respect? Is it possible?
Drop your ideas and feedback below.
Share this post