Worlding Postcolonial Sexualities: Publics, Counterpublics, Human Rights

Worlding Postcolonial Sexualities explores how postcolonial print cultures initiated a public discourse on sexual activism, offering alternative histories of precarity, vulnerability, and resistance. The book's comparative focus on India, Jamaica, and South Africa extends postcolonial feminist and queer studies to examine South-South interactions in sexual rights. It analyzes English-language and intermittently bilingual magazines and newsletters published between the late 1970s and the late 1990s, charting common concerns such as retrogressive colonial-era legislation, sexual violence, reproductive freedoms, HIV/AIDS crisis, lesbian and transgender concerns, and Non-Governmental Organizations as major actors articulating sexual rights as human rights.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 202 pages
Publication date: 02 August 2021
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Worlding Postcolonial Sexualities is a groundbreaking work that delves into the intricate realm of postcolonial print cultures and their role in initiating a public discourse on sexual activism. It argues that postcolonial feminist and queer archives provide alternative histories of sexual precarity, vulnerability, and resistance, challenging the dominant narratives of colonialism and heteronormativity.

The book's comparative focus on India, Jamaica, and South Africa expands the reach of postcolonial feminist and queer studies, shedding light on the historical intersections of South-South interactions in the realm of sexual rights. By analyzing the circumstances of production and the contents of English-language and intermittently bilingual magazines and newsletters published between the late 1970s and the late 1990s, the book offers a unique lens through which to examine the convergences and divergences between postcolonial feminist, gay, and lesbian activism.

The book charts a range of concerns shared by feminist, gay, and lesbian activist literature, including retrogressive colonial-era legislation that perpetuates the marginalization of women and sexual minorities. It also highlights the alarming rise in sexual violence, particularly against women and LGBTQ+ individuals. Moreover, it explores the complexities of reproductive freedoms and sexual choice under neoliberalism, where individual autonomy is often overshadowed by market-driven policies.

The HIV/AIDS crisis emerges as a central theme, shedding light on the devastating impact of the disease on marginalized communities and the urgent need for comprehensive healthcare and support. The book also explores the precariousness of lesbian and transgender concerns within feminist and LGBTQ+ movements, highlighting the need for greater inclusivity and recognition.

Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) play a pivotal role in articulating sexual rights as human rights, and the book explores their role in advocating for the rights of women and sexual minorities. It highlights the challenges and successes of these organizations in challenging oppressive policies and promoting social change.

Worlding Postcolonial Sexualities is a methodological innovation that draws on archival historical research, analyses of national and international policy documents, close readings of activist publications, and conversations with activists and founding editors. The book offers a rich and nuanced understanding of the complex interplay between postcolonialism, sexuality, and activism, providing valuable insights into the ongoing struggle for sexual justice and equality.

This groundbreaking work is not only a significant contribution to gender and sexuality studies but also wins the 2020 Feminist Futures, Subversive Histories prize in partnership with the NWSA. The prize recognizes works that challenge dominant narratives and promote alternative visions of the past and the future. Worlding Postcolonial Sexualities is a testament to the power of scholarship and activism in shaping our understanding of gender and sexuality in the postcolonial world.

In conclusion, Worlding Postcolonial Sexualities is a must-read for anyone interested in gender and sexuality studies, postcolonialism, and activism. It offers a fresh perspective on the historical and contemporary challenges faced by women and sexual minorities in the postcolonial world and provides a wealth of insights and resources for further exploration. Through its innovative methodology and compelling analysis, the book contributes to the ongoing dialogue about gender and sexuality and inspires us to work towards a more inclusive and just world.

Weight: 350g
Dimension: 155 x 233 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367772109