The more queer women in porn, the better: Is OnlyFans empowering or objectifying women?
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OnlyFans, the popular content-sharing platform, has been praised by many as a game-changer for women in sex work. Advocates argue that it gives creators complete control over their content, allowing them to set their own boundaries and prices while keeping all the profits. However, the full picture of OnlyFans’ impact on the industry is not as black and white as it may seem.
Megan Barton-Hanson, a well-known advocate for sex workers in the UK, believes that OnlyFans is a positive development for the industry. As someone who has worked as a stripper before finding success on the platform, she understands the challenges faced by sex workers in traditional settings. She argues that OnlyFans eliminates the need for middle-men, such as photographers and directors, who often take a large commission and pressure new models beyond their boundaries. According to Barton-Hanson, OnlyFans provides a safer and more lucrative workplace for sex workers.
While there is no doubt that OnlyFans has provided opportunities for many sex workers to take control of their work and income, there are concerns about how the platform can be exploited by men profiting from women’s bodies. Allegations have been made against Andrew Tate, who is accused of forcing victims to perform for OnlyFans content. Additionally, OnlyFans faced criticism in 2021 when it announced a ban on sexually explicit content, which would have affected the adult creators who have contributed significantly to the site’s success.
These issues highlight the broader context in which sex work exists – a patriarchal society that stigmatizes and exploits sex workers. Dr. Olivia Snow, a dominatrix and research fellow at UCLA, warns against categorizing sex work solely within an empowerment narrative. She argues that, ultimately, sex work is still labor under capitalism and may not be any more empowering than any other job on a systemic level. Snow also emphasizes the enduring stigma surrounding sex work, which can be dehumanizing and prevent individuals from fully embracing their work.
However, Snow acknowledges that sex work can be empowering for consumers, particularly those who do not see representations of themselves in mainstream media. The rise of creator-led content, such as that found on OnlyFans, has allowed for more diverse and authentic representations of queer and kinky sex. Pornhub’s Year in Review revealed that lesbian porn was viewed more by women than by men, suggesting that a significant number of straight women are enjoying it as well. Snow notes that many women in the sex industry are queer, and it is more unusual to be cisgender and heterosexual in this line of work.
Barton-Hanson shares Snow’s concerns about the objectification of women in mainstream porn, particularly for those questioning their sexuality and seeking guidance from adult content. She believes that the focus on the male gaze in much of the industry’s output can be damaging and misleading. That is why she sees the trend of actors uploading their own videos with their real-life partners as a positive development. Barton-Hanson argues that a more genuine representation of queer women in porn can provide a healthier and more realistic perspective on their experiences.
The rise of OnlyFans and similar platforms has undoubtedly had a significant impact on the sex work industry, giving creators more control over their work and income. However, it is essential to consider the broader societal context in which sex work exists. Stigma, exploitation, and risks of violence continue to plague sex workers, and these issues cannot be overlooked. While OnlyFans may offer a safer and more lucrative workplace for some, it is vital to address the potential for exploitation and ensure that all creators are protected and empowered within this evolving landscape.
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