My Angel/A Love Poem

In this new work, I examine the relationship between intimacy and racism. Colonial power structures have shaped ways of thinking
for centuries. These structures are not only present in ideologies of white superiority, which manifest in institutional and social systems, but also in personal and intimate realms, including romantic and sexual preferences. Yet, this is an area that has rarely been critically addressed. Intimacy is still often understood as safety and affection— something shared only with chosen partners. But on what basis are these relationships formed? Reflecting on the underlying intentions is essential. For example, if a white person, raised in a predominantly white context, expresses a preference for a specific ethnicity that is not their own, what does this reveal? Is it dismissed as simply a personal preference, or can such feelings, in some cases, be linked to the toxic dynamics between oppressor and oppressed?

When a relationship between a person of color and a white person is based on genuine intentions, awareness remains crucial. Histori- cally, and within the context of contemporary societies, it is clear that individuals are not always treated equally. This makes the acknowledgment of race even more essential for maintaining and nourishing the relationships we share with one another.

The work aims to offer insights into creating space for new, more critical, and ultimately more inclusive ways of thinking about intimacy.