Lauren D. Sawyer

Lauren D. Sawyer, a Professor of theology and culture, dives deep into the origins and implications of purity culture, particularly its impact on white youth. She connects the rise of this movement in the '90s to historical racial anxieties and critiques how white girls and queer teens have both suffered from and perpetuated its oppressive structures. Sawyer emphasizes the importance of youth agency and accountability, advocating for a nuanced understanding of their experiences in navigating purity norms. Expect sharp insights on the intersection of race, gender, and sexuality.