“Black Brothers #2”

“Black Brothers #2” by Sierra Domino is a notable piece in the history of African American homoerotic art, produced in 1983. Sierra Domino is a well-known name in the genre of homoerotic photography, particularly in the 1980s, a time when there was a growing interest in exploring the intersection of race, sexuality, and eroticism. The “Black Brothers” series is particularly significant as it focused on African American men, showcasing their beauty and sexuality in a way that was not often seen in mainstream erotic art of the time. The series was part of a broader movement to create and disseminate images that celebrated the bodies and sexualities of Black men, countering stereotypes and providing representation in a predominantly white space. “Black Brothers #2” features powerful, intimate, and provocative imagery of African American men, often depicted in sensual and erotic poses that highlight their physicality and masculinity. The work is not just about sexual desire but also about reclaiming and celebrating Black male identity in a society that frequently marginalized or fetishized Black bodies. The 1980s were a pivotal time for both the gay rights movement and the fight for racial equality, and works like Sierra Domino’s “Black Brothers #2” played a role in challenging norms and opening up discussions about race, sexuality, and representation. The series is remembered for its bold portrayal of Black men in homoerotic contexts, contributing to the visibility and empowerment of Black men during a crucial time in history.

And here we are, in 2024, and predictably, little has changed. In fact, it may even be worse so far as black dudes like me are concerned. Whether gay or straight, contemporary porn has no problem exploiting and objectifying the black man’s penis: from the moniker “BBC” that’s ubiquitous in the erotisphere, to films that have black men cuckolding their seemingly inadequate husbands. It all goes back to (and reinforces) the “Negro savage” stereotype that can be traced to ‘sploitation flicks’ in the 70’s like “Mandingo” to the erotic novels that always had some slutty woman/wife/mother leering after the well-endowed slave/field worker/ranch hand/prizefighter. Even now, gay white men ask me “how big are you?” before making any inquiries as to my thoughts, philosophies, favorite things, et al. Frankly, I am still taken aback when a man (gay or bi) remarks on my smile, my beard, my sweet ass, and not my dick. – sturgiscub aka: Dave