I deeply apologize that this came off as over-simplified in any way. As a white woman, I try to walk that line of uplifting but not speaking for Black women, of highlighting their voices and struggles but not pretending like I know what it has been like for them.

I specifically chose to use those quotes as my way to focus attention on Black women’s power and sexual authority. I wanted that to be the message that echoes through this piece. There’s a lot of white voices out there and I wanted to be more inclusive by featuring the voices of powerful Black women.

I understand that this is not a simple issue and I would never try to tackle it in a 1,500-word sex column. I had hoped it would feel inspirational and be a boost during a very rough week when I’m sure many must feel incredibly betrayed and let down by white Americans.

I realize maybe I made a mistake by including specific quotes from Black women. I honestly believed it was a way to celebrate them and highlight the fact that there IS a steep hill to climb and they are doing it in spite of the blatant racism and misogynoir in this country. But I realize that maybe it wasn’t my place to bring up race in this article. I’m still very uncertain about that.

Again, I apologize if you felt unseen by this. I will do some serious thinking.