Love, Blackness, and Non-Monogamy: Micropolitical Dimensions of Affection

This section delves into the Western concept of personhood and its profound influence on how love is understood. It examines the common-sense notions of love prevalent in Western societies, questioning whether love is an essential, pre-cultural phenomenon or a culturally situated experience. By dissecting the prevailing ideas about the self and its relation to others, this chapter lays the groundwork for understanding how these foundational concepts shape romantic ideals and expectations. It critically analyzes the cultural localization of love, suggesting that our understanding of affection is deeply embedded within specific societal frameworks and historical developments.

This crucial section confronts the intricate relationship between Black identity and love, tracing its roots through historical and colonial legacies. It begins by examining the institution of slavery and its enduring impact on Western consciousness regarding Blackness, particularly in the post-abolition era and the context of national identity and 'whitening' ideologies. The chapter then explores the 'coloniality of emotions' and the specific emotionality of Black individuals, highlighting the affective duplicity inherent in the formation of colonial bodies. Finally, it discusses the resistance against 'whitening' through cultural expressions and movements that promote Black self-love and affirmation, such as the slogans 'Reaja à violência racial: beije sua preta em praça pública' (React to racial violence: kiss your Black woman in public) and 'pretas e pretos estão se amando' (Black men and women are loving each other).

Within the 'Afrodengo – Amores Livres' community, this section examines the central themes of freedom, communication, and the re-evaluation of sexual practices. It explores how participants define and pursue freedom in their relationships, emphasizing open communication as a cornerstone for navigating the complexities of non-monogamy. The chapter also addresses the 'demoralization' of sexual practices, suggesting a move away from societal judgments and towards a more accepting and fluid understanding of sexuality within these relationships. This focus on communication and liberation is presented as key to developing a healthy and fulfilling non-monogamous ethic.

This chapter directly addresses the motivations behind Black individuals choosing non-monogamy, framing it as a process of self-reinvention and a pursuit of full intimacy. It moves beyond simplistic explanations to explore the deeper psychological and social drivers. The research investigates how embracing non-monogamy allows individuals to shed restrictive societal expectations and explore new facets of their identities. The pursuit of 'full intimacy' is presented not just as romantic connection but as a holistic sense of connection and fulfillment, achieved through diverse and authentic relationship structures.

Navigating the complexities of non-monogamy often involves interacting with a society largely structured around monogamous norms. This chapter examines the dynamics of 'sociability with the monogamous world.' It explores the challenges and strategies involved in maintaining relationships and social connections with individuals who adhere to monogamous frameworks. The research sheds light on how non-monogamous individuals negotiate their identities and relationships within a broader social context, addressing potential misunderstandings, judgments, and the need for clear communication and education.

The concluding section of the dissertation synthesizes the key findings and offers final reflections on the complex interplay of love, Blackness, and non-monogamy. It reiterates the central argument that love is a culturally constructed phenomenon, deeply influenced by historical, social, and political contexts. The research underscores the agency of Black individuals in redefining love and relationships, challenging dominant norms, and forging new paths towards intimacy and self-fulfillment. The 'Final Considerations' provide a broader perspective on the implications of this research for understanding contemporary relationships and the evolving landscape of human affection, emphasizing the micropolitical dimensions of affect.