Exploiting the Fifty Shades of Grey craze for the disability and sexual rights agenda

Abstract

This paper does not present a literary critique of Fifty Shades of Grey, nor does it aim to take sides in the fierce disputes about the ‘rights’ and ‘wrongs’ of the storyline. Instead, it examines these debates with curiosity. It becomes apparent that the popular trilogy by E.L. James has encouraged more open discussions about sex and sexuality amongst groups who, until recently, have taken a backseat. The significance and usefulness of drawing on these debates is highlighted. For instance, a revived openness towards sexual issues could be an advantage for disabled people seeking support with creating spaces and opportunities for intimacy. At the same time, there is a risk that ‘kinkphobia’ could inform some adult protection interventions. This paper reflects on the opportunities that would arise if disabled people would seek to make the most of the possibilities arising from the Fifty Shades of Grey craze.

Keywords:

• cripsex
• disability and sexuality
• Fifty Shades of Grey
• sexual normativity
• sexual politics of disability

Acknowledgements

Many thanks to Alan Roulstone for his insightful and constructive feedback on an earlier draft of this paper.

Notes

1. ‘The compounded acronym denotes the activities and identities involved in the following: bondage and discipline; dominance and submission; and sadism and masochism’ (Downing 2013, 100).