Transnational Sex-Positive Play Parties: The Sexual Politics of Care for Community-Making at a Kinky Salon

Abstract

I am honored and humbled to extend my gratitude to all those who supported me in obtaining my graduate degree. First, I thank the Florida International University, University Graduate School, for awarding me the Dissertation Year Fellowship. This fellowship helped me to write this manuscript and graduate, supported, in a timely manner. Next, I thank my chair, Professor Jean Muteba Rahier. Dr. Rahier has been instrumental in every step of my academic success, providing me valuable personal and professional guidance and support. Thank you also to my co-chair, Professor Caroline Faria. Dr. Faria has shaped my understandings of what feminist geographies may be, exciting me to go in the direction I have. Both Dr. Faria and Dr. Rahier have been generous and supportive allies throughout this process. Without their encouragement this project would not have been completed, I am very grateful to you both. I also want to thank my dissertation committee: Professor Ben Smith, Professor Andrea Queeley, and Professor Laurie Shrage. Your commitment to my completion is deeply appreciated. I also want to thank fellow colleagues I have met and become enduring friends with while on my academic journey, your support and encouragement has mattered greatly. And finally, I extend immense gratitude to all the people that made this work possible, your warmth, trust and enthusiasm has been humbling and enriching. Thank you all for all you have taught me on this journey. vi