In a world where women's bodies have historically been under the scrutiny of patriarchal norms, the tides are turning. Celebrated artists like Cardi B and Megan Thee Stallion are trailblazers with songs such as "WAP," which has sparked considerable debate with its unapologetic sexual candor. The discourse surrounding this song should not focus on its explicit nature, but rather on challenging the age-old societal constraints that have dictated female sexual autonomy.
The expression of sexual desires through music isn't a novel concept. Yet, a persistent double standard exists where female artists are vilified for expressing the same sexual desires that male artists have been vocal about for years. It's time to echo Summer Walker's sentiment that 'Girls need love too' and recognize that women's sexual desires are equally valid.
Women today continue to face 'respectability politics,' an insidious form of judgment dictating their behavior in society. From dress codes to reproductive rights, women are often deemed incapable of making responsible decisions without societal oversight. It is essential to move away from these archaic views and celebrate women's freedom to express themselves and make autonomous choices regarding their bodies.
With sexuality education lagging in many educational systems, youth often turn to the media for information. The lack of comprehensive sex education, exacerbated by the shift to virtual learning during the COVID-19 pandemic, leaves a gap that media and entertainment frequently fill. It underscores the need for early, age-appropriate sexuality messages to empower young people with accurate information.
The narrative around sexual pleasure often omits women's experiences, focusing instead on pleasuring others. It's time to acknowledge that pleasure is a reciprocal concept, as Drake highlights, and should be openly discussed and embraced by women. The shame and secrecy that have surrounded female sexuality must give way to open conversations and self-exploration.
The emergence of songs like "WAP" is a powerful statement of female empowerment and sexual liberation. While not everyone may relate to the song, it represents a celebration of individual desires and the rejection of patriarchal constraints. It is a call to redefine pleasure on one's own terms, whether it involves intimacy, exploration, or self-discovery. It's time to support women in expressing their sexual needs and to normalize the pursuit of pleasure as an integral part of sexual health and wellbeing.