A more extensive “About” page is in the works. You could say it’s on the agenda. For the time being, however, I’ll simply repeat my introductory post:
I decided to start this blog because I often feel like the polyamorous community could benefit from more socio-political analysis, and that at the same time, the broader world of socio-political commentary lacks polyamorous voices. As a polyamorous woman, a feminist writer, and a radical leftist concerned with the intersections of gender, sexuality, race, and class in our society, I think I have the potential to bring some underrepresented perspectives to the table. And frankly, I’m also starting this blog because I frequently find myself with a whole lot to say about polyamory, and not a whole lot of forums in which to say it.
Because people often seem confused by what it means to advocate for polyamory, I think it’s important to clarify up front that I am not speaking out in opposition to monogamy. Monogamy is just fine and dandy for those who choose it. What I’m interested in is critiquing the social institution of compulsory monogamy—the set of norms that tell us monogamy is the only available option.
So why does this critique matter? Because not everyone feels comfortable and fulfilled in monogamous relationships, just like not everyone would be comfortable and fulfilled in a heterosexual relationship. There is no “one-size-fits-all” when it comes to love and intimacy. But when alternatives to monogamy are invalidated by the society we live in, it’s incredibly difficult for anyone to make an authentic and conscious choice about what kind of relationship they prefer to be in.
My radical agenda is to create a world where all people are able to freely choose how to form romantic and intimate bonds, whether that choice is for monogamy, polyamory, or something else entirely; a world where all people can say they entered into a particular relationship formation with intent, not simply as a result of following a social default. And it’s my honest belief that living in such a world will greatly benefit all of us, not just those of us who happen to be polyamorous.
For a bit more background, feel free to check out:
My personal poly ideology over at Modern Poly
A piece I wrote about my family at Role/Reboot
A longer manifesto of sorts, which I co-authored with my ex-boyfriend
Am looking forward to reading more on this blog! Thanks so much for putting it out there. How can I sign up to “follow” your blog (I don’t do twitter)? Thanks.
I’m pretty new to wordpress, but I believe if you click on “follow,” you should have the option to follow via email notification. Thanks!
I love learning your experience with Poly. It has opened a whole new world and inspired me, hence.. why I have nominated you for the “Very Inspiring Blogger Award”
Hey there! You have inspired me hence why.. I have nominated you for the “Very Inspiring Blogger Award”!. See: http://naughtynovellas.wordpress.com/2013/05/29/insipring-blogger-award/
Thank you!
Hi Angi, thanks for the ‘like’ on my own blog post – I’m really glad that I’m now aware of your own, which I look forward to following. Like you, one of the things I find appealing about polyamory is the possibilities it offers from a feminist perspective, so I’m keen to read more!
Loved your story on Salon, and am enjoying your blog as well! Thanks for sharing!
I couldn’t find a way to contact you on your blog, so I hope you don’t mind me asking here: Can I get your email address so that I can send you a private message? Otherwise, if you don’t want to post your email, will you email me @ ladyroxanne21@hotmail.com
Thank you 🙂
Roxanne