Bodily Autonomy After Dobbs: A Queer Black Perspective

Authors

Eliot T. Tracz

Date

2026

Abstract

This article considers the impact of the Dobbs ruling from a black, queer perspective. It argues that the ripple effect of the Dobbs decision threatens the safety of queer black people in ways which, due to poor data collection, may not be widely understood or analyzed. It then suggests several ways in which the state and federal government can avoid these outcomes. Section II discusses the concept of bodily autonomy and the impact of the Dobbs decision. It begins by defining bodily autonomy as a concept with emphasis on the cases upon which it is founded. It then moves on to discuss Dobbs as the driver of regression of protections for bodily autonomy. Section III addresses bodily autonomy and black identity. In doing so, it focuses on slavery and the sexualization of black bodies. Section IV discusses the intersection of bodily autonomy and queer identity. This includes the policing of queer bodies through sodomy laws, gender affirming care restrictions, and policing of attire. Section V considers how the queer, black community is impacted by the Dobbs opinion. It proceeds in two parts. First, it discusses the impact of Dobbs on queer healthcare, including trans bodies and abortion and gender affirming care.

Recommended Citation

Tracz, Eliot T. (2026) "Bodily Autonomy After Dobbs: A Queer Black Perspective," Journal of Race, Gender, and Ethnicity: Vol. 14: Iss. 1, Article 8.
Available at: https://digitalcommons.tourolaw.edu/jrge/vol14/iss1/8