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Don’t be “insecure” about sex positivity

By Zaquoya Rogers

The hit TV series Insecure, created by Issa Rae, brings a modern, everyday phenomenon to light: the “Hoe Phase.” After the lead character Issa breaks up with her longtime boyfriend, she energetically reenters the dating scene, getting intimate with several new partners.

The Hoe Phase is a pop culture term used “to describe sexual liberation in the dating scene.” Women’s sexuality has often been taboo and kept in the dark, while men’s sexuality is built into who they are and praised by society. This stifles the fact that women are sexual beings and should be allowed that freedom.

This social expectation of women’s sexuality puts pressure on them to keep track of their “body count,” creating a perception that the higher it gets, the less valuable they become. Recently, however, I’ve noticed women embracing their sexuality, or “hoe phase.” In fact, the connotation around the words such “hoe” and “slut” has shifted, with the help of feminist celebrities and their advocacy. People like Amber Rose and Issa Rae change this cultural conversation through projects like SlutWalk and Insecure.

In an interview with Issa Rae, she stated there are three types of hoe phases. One: The people who don’t take part in “non-committed sexual activity and choose to wait on a relationship.” Two: The people who are fully engaged in being sexual with a number of people or “getting their numbers [body count] up.” Three: The people who dabble in casual, sexual liberation, but still seek intimacy.

No matter which of these categories, I feel that women having a hoe phase is healthy. It can build a sense of character and gives them the chance to figure out what they like or don’t like.

As long as it is safe, consensual and what you want to do, do it… literally!