Proceedings of the 3rd International Conference on LGBT studies
Year: 2024
DOI:
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Exploring Racial Dynamics and Sexual Power in Thailand’s Queer Sauna Culture: A White Multilocal Perspective
Joseph Black
ABSTRACT:
This paper delves into the intricate intersectionality of race, sexuality, and power dynamics within Thailand’s vibrant queer sauna culture, from the lens of a white multilocal individual. Focusing on the racialized dimensions of pleasure-seeking behaviours in Thai sexual environments, particularly saunas, it investigates how whiteness functions as a coveted asset, shaping the dynamics of desire and power. By examining historical contexts and contemporary manifestations, the paper elucidates the ease with which white individuals, particularly bottoms, navigate and cultivate sexual currency within these environments. Furthermore, it explores the implications of this dynamic on individual experiences, social hierarchies, and broader cultural perceptions. Through nuanced analysis, this study contributes to a deeper understanding of the complex interplay between race, sexuality, and power within global queer spaces, offering insights into the dynamics of privilege and marginalization in contemporary sexual cultures.
keywords: Race, sexuality, power dynamics, queer culture, sauna environments