KATHERINE WALTER dot COM

A MidWestern transgender woman trying to survive in the real life.

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Embracing My Identity as a Sex-Positive Transfeminist

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On December 14, 2024

In feminism

As a transgender woman, my journey of self-discovery and affirmation has been deeply intertwined with my understanding of sexuality, identity, and autonomy. I identify as a sex-positive transfeminist, which means I believe in celebrating the full range of human experience, embracing sexual expression, and challenging the societal norms that seek to limit or shame it.

Being sex-positive is about more than just being open to diverse sexual orientations and practices. It’s about rejecting the stigma that surrounds certain aspects of sexuality and embracing a philosophy of consent, respect, and autonomy. As a transgender woman, I’ve had to navigate not only societal expectations of femininity and gender but also the layers of shame and misconceptions about my body, my desires, and my identity. Transgender women, in particular, are often stigmatized as either hypersexual or as objects of fetish, but being a sex-positive transfeminist means rejecting these harmful stereotypes and celebrating my sexuality as a multifaceted and natural part of who I am.

Kink-Friendly and Embracing Diverse Sexual Expression

As part of my sex-positive approach, I am also kink-friendly. I believe that kink and BDSM practices, when based on mutual consent, communication, and respect, are just as valid and fulfilling as any other form of sexual expression. In fact, the kink community has provided me with a space to embrace my desires, challenge social taboos, and engage in deep, meaningful exploration of power dynamics and intimacy. Being kink-friendly means acknowledging that people have diverse desires and fantasies, and those desires are valid as long as they are consensual and respectful of everyone involved.

For me, this means fully accepting and celebrating all aspects of my sexuality without shame or guilt. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to sexual expression, and I firmly believe that everyone deserves the freedom to explore their desires in ways that are both safe and affirming.

Writing Erotica: An Outlet for Creative and Sexual Expression

Another important aspect of my life is my work as an erotica writer, which I pursue under a pen name. Through my writing, I’ve been able to explore the complexities of desire, identity, and power dynamics in a way that aligns with my own experiences and fantasies. My work is known within certain communities on the internet, where it has garnered attention for its raw, unapologetic exploration of sex and intimacy. Writing under a pen name allows me to separate my public persona from my private creative expression, but it also gives me the freedom to engage with readers and communities who appreciate erotic literature that pushes boundaries, explores kink, and challenges societal views on sexuality.

The act of writing erotica is, for me, a form of empowerment. It allows me to reclaim my sexuality in a way that is both creative and personal, while also providing an opportunity to engage with others who share similar interests. It’s a space where I can express myself freely, without judgment, and where I can challenge the taboos that often surround topics of sex and desire.

Pro-Sex Worker and Advocacy for Decriminalization

As part of my broader belief in sex-positivity and autonomy, I am also pro-sex worker and firmly believe that prostitution should be decriminalized. Sex work, when practiced consensually and safely, is a valid and legitimate form of labor, and the criminalization of sex work only serves to harm those who engage in it. By decriminalizing prostitution, we can ensure that sex workers have access to legal protections, safety, and healthcare, and can live their lives without the constant fear of legal repercussions or stigmatization.

Transgender people, particularly trans women, are disproportionately affected by the criminalization of sex work. Many transgender individuals face discrimination and marginalization in the job market, leaving sex work as one of the few viable options for survival. By decriminalizing prostitution, we would not only be improving the lives of sex workers, but also dismantling the social stigma and criminalization that disproportionately harms marginalized communities.

Sex workers, like all individuals, deserve to be treated with dignity and respect, free from criminal penalties. It’s time for society to recognize sex work as work, and to protect those who choose this path with the same legal rights and protections afforded to any other worker.

Challenging Stigma and Celebrating Autonomy

As a sex-positive transfeminist, my goal is to create a world where people of all genders, orientations, and identities can embrace their sexualities without fear of judgment or discrimination. I advocate for spaces that are inclusive, respectful, and open to all forms of consensual expression, whether that means engaging in kink, embracing non-traditional relationships, or simply living authentically as one’s true self.

Sexuality is a deeply personal and often transformative aspect of human life. For transgender individuals, it can be an especially challenging terrain to navigate. But by embracing a sex-positive mindset and fostering a transfeminist perspective, I believe we can create more inclusive, affirming spaces for people to explore their identities and desires. It’s not just about personal liberation—it’s about contributing to a broader cultural shift where all people, regardless of gender or background, can live authentically and celebrate their sexuality without shame.

In embracing sex-positivity, kink, erotic writing, and advocacy for sex workers’ rights, I’ve found a sense of freedom and empowerment that has transformed my journey. And I’m proud to share this part of my identity with others, hoping to encourage a more inclusive, respectful, and open-minded world.

The Impact of Older Men on Teenage Pregnancy

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On December 13, 2024

In feminism

Teenage pregnancy, particularly when it involves older men, reveals deep gender and racial inequalities that entrench cycles of disadvantage for young girls. Research has shown that between 20% and 36% of teenage pregnancies result from relationships with men several years older (Boden, Fergusson, & Horwood, 2010; Manlove, Papillo, & Ikramullah, 2004). These pregnancies reflect power imbalances, where young girls—particularly those from ethnic minority backgrounds—are coerced or manipulated into sexual relationships. The overturn of Roe v. Wade and the growing restrictions on abortion access exacerbate this issue, leaving these vulnerable populations, especially ethnic minority girls, at even greater risk. Moreover, the lack of strong policies addressing older men who impregnate preteen girls further highlights the need for comprehensive reform.

Older Men and Teenage Pregnancy: Power and Coercion

The involvement of older men in teenage pregnancies must be understood within the context of gendered and racialized power dynamics. Relationships between older men and young girls are often characterized by significant age gaps and coercive power dynamics. These young girls, especially those from marginalized communities, are particularly vulnerable to such relationships due to factors such as limited emotional and financial support, socioeconomic instability, and cultural pressures that restrict their autonomy.

Research by Manlove et al. (2004) found that approximately 25% of teenage pregnancies stemmed from relationships with men at least five years older than the girl. This issue is more pronounced in ethnic minority communities, where young girls face additional barriers, such as systemic racism, limited access to education, and inadequate healthcare. These power imbalances make it harder for young girls to resist exploitation or make informed decisions about their reproductive health, especially when manipulated by older men.

The Overturn of Roe v. Wade and the Impact on Minority Girls

The Supreme Court’s 2022 decision to overturn Roe v. Wade and return the regulation of abortion to individual states has had profound consequences, especially for young women from marginalized communities. Many states now have restrictive or outright bans on abortion, leaving young girls—particularly those who become pregnant as a result of coercion or relationships with older men—without options. These legal restrictions disproportionately affect ethnic minority girls, who already face substantial barriers to healthcare access.

For these girls, abortion access is further complicated by geographic and financial barriers, as well as parental consent or notification requirements. In states with strict abortion laws, the lack of safe and legal abortion services means that pregnant minors may be forced to carry a pregnancy to term, even if they are ill-prepared emotionally, financially, or socially. This further reinforces cycles of disadvantage, denying these young women the ability to make informed decisions about their futures and exacerbating systemic inequalities (Guttmacher Institute, 2022).

Weak Policies Around Older Men and Preteen Pregnancy

A significant aspect of the problem is the weak policies surrounding older men who impregnate underage girls, particularly preteen girls. Although many states have laws that criminalize sex with minors, these laws are often poorly enforced, and older men who engage in sexual relationships with young girls may face lenient penalties or no consequences at all. This failure to adequately address these situations leaves young girls vulnerable to further exploitation.

For example, many sexual abuse laws fail to adequately consider the unique vulnerabilities of girls in ethnic minority communities, where cultural, social, and economic pressures may prevent them from seeking help or reporting abuse. Even when older men are held accountable, the penalties may be insufficient to deter harmful behaviors or protect young girls from future exploitation (Lammers, Stoker, Jordan, Pollmann, & Fischer, 2011).

Education for Men: Preventing Exploitation Before It Happens

In addressing this issue, it is crucial to focus on preventative measures that can stop exploitation before it occurs. A vital part of this prevention is education. Boys and young men need to be educated early on about the legal and moral consequences of impregnating underage girls. This education should go beyond basic sex education and emphasize the importance of consent, healthy relationships, and the severe consequences of engaging in relationships with minors.

Boys need to understand that exploitation is not only harmful but also punishable by law. By educating young men about these issues, we can foster a culture where sexual exploitation of minors is less likely to occur. Such education can promote respect for boundaries and healthy relationship dynamics, ultimately helping to prevent predatory behavior (Haines & Joffe, 2013).

The Sexualization of Women and Girls in American Culture

The sexualization of women, and especially girls, is embedded in American culture due to the patriarchal structure of society. Media, advertising, and pop culture often portray women and girls as sexual objects, reinforcing the idea that their value is tied to their sexual appeal and appearance. These normalized portrayals of sexual objectification contribute to a societal environment where older men may feel entitled to manipulate or exploit young girls, especially when they view them as available or desirable.

Studies have shown that the sexualization of young girls in the media contributes to the normalization of harmful behaviors toward them. The American Psychological Association (APA, 2007) found that the portrayal of sexualized images of girls in the media negatively impacts their body image, self-esteem, and mental health. Such portrayals create an environment in which young girls are seen as commodities, making it easier for older men to justify their actions of exploitation.

Reproductive Justice and the Need for Stronger Policy

From a feminist perspective, the current state of reproductive rights and protections for young girls is deeply inadequate. Reproductive justice goes beyond the right to abortion and includes the right to live free from violence, coercion, and exploitation. For ethnic minority girls who become pregnant as a result of relationships with older men, this means not only ensuring access to safe and legal abortion services but also strengthening laws to protect these girls from sexual exploitation and abuse.

To achieve reproductive justice, stronger policies are needed to protect young girls from older men who prey on their vulnerability. This includes implementing and enforcing stricter age-of-consent laws, imposing harsher penalties for sexual exploitation, and providing more resources for minors to report abuse and seek help without fear of judgment or retribution. Furthermore, policymakers must ensure that all young women, especially those in marginalized communities, have access to comprehensive sex education, reproductive healthcare, and abortion services (Silliman, Fried, Ross, & Gurr, 2004).

Conclusion

The issue of teenage pregnancy, especially when involving older men, reflects entrenched gender and racial inequalities that limit the autonomy and future opportunities of young girls. The overturn of Roe v. Wade and increasing restrictions on abortion access only exacerbate these challenges, especially for ethnic minority girls who already face significant barriers to healthcare. Additionally, weak policies addressing older men who impregnate preteen girls and the normalization of the sexualization of young girls in American culture contribute to a cycle of exploitation that needs urgent reform.

To move toward true reproductive justice, policies must be reformed to provide stronger protections for young girls, particularly those in marginalized communities. This includes strengthening laws against sexual exploitation, educating young men about the consequences of exploiting minors, ensuring access to reproductive healthcare, and providing comprehensive education and support services for young women. Through these efforts, we can ensure that young girls—regardless of their ethnicity or socioeconomic status—have the opportunity to make informed, autonomous decisions about their bodies and futures.

References

American Psychological Association. (2007). Report of the APA task force on the sexualization of girls. American Psychological Association.

Boden, J. M., Fergusson, D. M., & Horwood, L. J. (2010). Early motherhood and subsequent life outcomes. Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry, 51(2), 167-175. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1469-7610.2009.02191.x

Guttmacher Institute. (2022). Abortion policy in the United States. https://www.guttmacher.org/state-policy

Haines, D., & Joffe, C. (2013). The case for early interventions in preventing sexual violence. American Journal of Public Health, 103(9), 1641-1647. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2013.301299

Lammers, J., Stoker, J. I., Jordan, J., Pollmann, M., & Fischer, A. H. (2011). Power increases infidelity among men and women. Psychological Science, 22(9), 1191-1197. https://doi.org/10.1177/0956797611416253

Manlove, J., Papillo, A. R., & Ikramullah, E. (2004). The impact of male involvement on adolescent pregnancies and births: A review of the literature. Child Trends. https://www.childtrends.org/publications/the-impact-of-male-involvement-on-adolescent-pregnancies-and-births-a-review-of-the-literature

Silliman, J., Fried, A., Ross, L., & Gurr, L. (2004). Undivided rights: Women of color organize for reproductive justice. South End Press.

The History of the Word “Woke” and Its Evolution in Modern Discourse

By

On November 27, 2024

In BIPOC rights

The term “woke” has undergone significant transformation over time, evolving from a phrase in African American Vernacular English (AAVE) to a charged political label. While its origins in Black activism symbolized awareness of racial and social injustice, the term has been redefined and weaponized in contemporary discourse. From its early roots to its current political implications, the history of “woke” reveals much about the changing landscape of social justice movements and the polarized debates surrounding them.

Origins: The Emergence of “Woke” in Black Activism

“Woke” originally emerged within African American Vernacular English (AAVE), where it referred to being awake or aware, particularly regarding social and racial issues. The term dates back to the 1940s, with early uses such as in the 1942 New York Times article that advised readers to “stay woke” in reference to racial inequalities (NPR, 2024). The phrase’s true significance, however, began to take root during the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s when Black activists embraced the term as part of their struggle for racial justice.

To be “woke” was to be conscious of the societal forces that perpetuated racial oppression, and it was a call to action for those who sought to dismantle these systems. It wasn’t merely about awareness but also about staying vigilant in the fight against injustice, whether it was through activism, community engagement, or policy reform.

The Expansion of “Woke” in the 21st Century

The term gained broader recognition in the early 2000s, especially with the rise of social media and its role in organizing movements like Black Lives Matter (BLM). As movements addressing racial inequality, police violence, and systemic oppression grew in prominence, “woke” became synonymous with activism and social consciousness in progressive circles.

“Woke” signified a heightened awareness of not just racial inequality but also other social justice issues such as gender inequality, LGBTQ+ rights, and economic injustice. In this context, the term emphasized a holistic understanding of oppression, recognizing that issues like class, race, and gender were interconnected and demanded intersectional approaches (NPR, 2023). Progressives began using “woke” to encourage others to be conscious of these societal issues and to fight for equality and justice.

Political Weaponization of “Woke”

As “woke” entered the political mainstream, it began to take on a more contentious meaning. Conservative figures began using the term pejoratively to criticize what they viewed as overreach by progressive movements. This shift was particularly evident in the rhetoric of politicians like Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, who criticized the rise of “woke” ideologies in his campaign against “woke culture” (NPR, 2023). DeSantis, in particular, has positioned himself as a champion against what he frames as the excesses of “wokeism,” often linking it to a supposed threat to traditional values, free speech, and American institutions (Mother Jones, 2023).

The term “woke” was increasingly used by the right to describe policies and initiatives promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in public institutions, particularly in government and the military (NPR, 2024). In this context, conservatives, including figures like Pete Hegseth, argued that such initiatives were an unnecessary imposition on American values, framing “woke” as an unwelcome force in sectors like the Department of Defense (NPR, 2024).

Conservative critiques of “woke” culture have often focused on identity politics, claiming that it fosters division and undermines meritocracy. They argue that “woke” politics prioritizes group identities over individual achievement and promotes a divisive narrative that stifles free expression. For many on the right, “woke” culture represents an attack on traditional institutions and the cultural norms that underpin American society (Mother Jones, 2023).

The Persistence of “Woke” in Progressive Movements

Despite the right-wing backlash, the term “woke” remains a central component of progressive activism. To be woke today is still to be aware of and engaged with the systems of oppression that continue to shape society. It signifies an awareness of the structural inequalities that affect marginalized communities, including those based on race, gender, sexual orientation, and economic status.

For progressives, the label “woke” remains an important symbol of resistance and a commitment to fighting for a more inclusive and just society. It reflects the idea that addressing inequality requires constant vigilance and a willingness to confront injustice wherever it exists. Far from being a negative force, being woke is about staying informed, compassionate, and active in the struggle for social justice.

The use of “woke” by progressives today extends beyond its original association with race. It now encompasses broader struggles for equity and justice, from climate action to LGBTQ+ rights, labor rights, and the fight against voter suppression. “Woke” culture is, in essence, a reminder that the work for justice is far from finished, and that all individuals must remain alert to the ways in which systems of power shape society.

Conclusion: “Woke” as a Reflection of Societal Struggles

The evolution of the term “woke” from a call for racial justice to a politicized label reflects broader societal struggles over the direction of social and cultural change. Initially a term used by Black activists to signify awareness of racial oppression, “woke” has grown into a symbol of resistance to systemic injustice in all its forms. While it has been politicized and weaponized by conservative forces, for progressives, it remains a term that signifies a commitment to confronting inequality and working toward a more just world.

As debates over “woke” culture continue to intensify, it is clear that the term will remain a flashpoint in the ongoing culture wars. For those committed to social justice, “woke” is more than just a label—it is a call to remain engaged in the fight for a world that is equitable, inclusive, and free from discrimination.

References

Mother Jones. (2023, August 1). Negrophilia, “woke,” and the right’s obsession with Black culture. https://www.motherjones.com/politics/2023/08/negrophilia-woke-right-conservative-desantis/

NPR. (2023, July 21). How “woke” became a political tool for both Trump and DeSantis. https://www.npr.org/2023/07/21/1189016049/woke-desantis-trump-black-culture

NPR. (2024, November 14). Pete Hegseth on the Defense Department’s DEI initiatives. https://www.npr.org/2024/11/14/nx-s1-5191941/pete-hegseth-defense-department-dei

DEI Rollbacks: Impact on Transgender Inclusion and Historical Parallels

By

On November 26, 2024

In LGBTQ+ rights

The rollback of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies by corporations like Walmart signals a significant step backward for marginalized communities, particularly transgender individuals. These actions undermine the progress made toward fostering inclusive environments, which have historically supported underrepresented groups in navigating systemic inequities. For transgender individuals, such as myself, the impact of these rollbacks extends beyond the workplace, contributing to broader societal challenges that echo exclusionary policies of the past.

According to NPR, Walmart recently announced it would scale back DEI initiatives, including ending racial equity training and reducing its support for LGBTQ+ resources and events (Douglas-Gabriel & McGregor, 2024). This rollback reflects a troubling trend among businesses that had previously positioned themselves as leaders in fostering inclusivity. For transgender individuals, the implications are profound: diminished support in workplace environments can exacerbate existing discrimination and limit opportunities for equitable participation in professional settings.

The historical context of the Chinese Exclusion Act offers a striking parallel. Despite their critical contributions to the transcontinental railroad, Chinese immigrants faced systemic discrimination, culminating in policies that institutionalized their exclusion (Georgia Public Broadcasting, 2024). Today’s rollbacks of DEI policies similarly threaten to sideline marginalized groups, reinforcing societal biases and undoing progress toward equity.

Further compounding these challenges are political shifts that threaten access to essential resources for transgender individuals. For example, recent discussions about limiting gender-affirming care and enforcing restrictive healthcare policies, such as those tied to the Hyde Amendment, could have devastating consequences for the estimated 1.6 million transgender individuals in the United States (Huang, 2024; Smith, 2024). These measures would disproportionately harm those who already face systemic barriers, making DEI rollbacks even more damaging.

Businesses play a vital role in shaping inclusive societal norms, and their retreat from DEI commitments sends a dangerous message. Upholding diversity, equity, and inclusion is not merely a matter of corporate responsibility; it is essential for ensuring the dignity, safety, and opportunity of all individuals, especially those who have historically faced exclusion.

References

Douglas-Gabriel, D., & McGregor, J. (2024, November 26). Walmart scales back DEI initiatives amid political pressure. NPR. Retrieved from https://www.npr.org

Georgia Public Broadcasting. (2024). America’s first major immigration crackdown and the making and breaking of the West. Retrieved from https://www.gpb.org

Huang, L. (2024, November 22). How transgender Americans could lose gender-affirming care. NPR. Retrieved from https://www.npr.org

Smith, J. (2024, November 15). What Trump’s reelection could mean for transgender health care access. NPR. Retrieved from https://www.npr.org

More Hellish than Being a US Navy Seal

By

On November 15, 2024

In LGBTQ+ rights

In late 2022, Chris Beck, formerly known as Kristen Beck, made headlines when he announced that he was detransitioning. A former US Navy SEAL, Beck had undergone gender transition in the early 2010s, seeking to live as a woman after decades of internal struggle. His decision to detransition shocked many in the transgender community and beyond, raising questions about the complexities of gender identity and the emotional and psychological challenges that can accompany such profound personal decisions.

I don’t have any issue with those who decide to transition to either their original assigned gender or to a different gender role. As Valdes and MacKinnon (2023) point out, the process of transitioning is an intensely personal journey and should be respected as such. However, it is equally important to recognize and validate the experiences of those who decide to detransition. They, too, have the right to be heard and understood without judgment. Detransitioning is often met with skepticism and even hostility, especially in a society that sometimes views gender transition as a one-way path. But as Beck’s story reveals, gender identity is not always a linear progression, and the journey can be full of unexpected twists.

Chris Beck’s military career, including his time as a Navy SEAL, was intense and demanding. He faced physical and emotional challenges that tested his limits. Yet, Beck has stated that his experience with transitioning and later detransitioning was more difficult, more “hellish” than any mission he faced in combat. For Beck, the decision to transition was driven by a deep-seated sense of misalignment with his assigned gender. However, after transitioning, he began to realize that his struggles with identity went far beyond gender alone. As he explains, detransitioning wasn’t an easy choice—it was one born of a painful journey to truly understand himself.

For many detransitioners, there is a combination of external and internal factors that lead to the decision to return to their assigned gender. In Beck’s case, he has discussed feeling pressure to conform to the transgender community’s expectations of what it meant to be a woman. He described being caught between societal forces, medical professionals, and his own feelings of discomfort with how he was expected to look and behave. In a society that often demands conformity, the struggle to reconcile one’s true identity with external expectations can feel like an insurmountable task.

The emotional and psychological toll of detransitioning is profound. Beck has been candid about his struggle with depression and loneliness during this period. He is not alone in feeling this way—many who detransition face similar challenges, often feeling isolated both within the transgender community and the wider world. The decision to detransition is not made lightly; it often involves navigating a complex web of emotional, physical, and social consequences. As Valdes and MacKinnon (2023) suggest, it is crucial for society to take detransitioners seriously, acknowledging the pain they experience while also understanding that their stories are valid.

Despite the struggles that came with detransitioning, Beck emphasizes that his decision was one of self-discovery. He is not rejecting the trans community or invalidating the experiences of others who transition. Rather, he is seeking to align himself with a sense of identity that feels truer to who he is. The narrative of detransitioning is one that is too often ignored or silenced, but it is important to listen with compassion and open-mindedness to those who find themselves on this path.

The journey of gender identity is never simple, and it is crucial to acknowledge that for some, the decision to transition or detransition can be fraught with confusion, pain, and even regret. As we continue to evolve our understanding of gender, it is essential that we honor and support all people—whether they transition, detransition, or remain in the gender they were assigned at birth. As Beck’s story shows, the process of finding oneself can take many forms, and the road is not always straightforward.

The personal story of Chris Beck’s detransition serves as a powerful reminder that the journey of gender identity is deeply individual. For some, it may be more hellish than being a Navy SEAL, but it is a journey that deserves respect and understanding. Just as those who transition are valid, so too are those who decide to detransition. As a society, we must strive to provide space for all voices in the gender discourse, without judgment or dismissal, but with empathy and support.

 

References

Valdes, D., & MacKinnon, K. (2023, January 18). Take Detransitioners Seriously. The Atlantic. https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2023/01/detransition-transgender-nonbinary-gender-affirming-care/672745/

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