Gênero, sexualidade e regionalidade:

problematizando o trabalho sexual no sertão nordestino

Abstract

This article analyzes sex work in two cities in the northeastern hinterland from the intersection of social markers of the difference between gender, sexuality and regionality. Based on a qualitative approach, five people were interviewed who have sex work as their main source of income. The data collection was done through semi-structured interviews, and for analysis the technique of content analysis was used. The data points out that sex work in the hinterland cities, in general, is heteronormative, with regard to the stereotypes created over the region as macho, patriarchal and conservative. The speeches presented point out the dissidences of sex workers in the region studied. This initial study proposes a look beyond binary gender arrangements and an investigation of the discourses that naturalize values related to the northeastern hinterland, as a region that denies femininity by creating brave and virile men and women. It is perceived that gender is related to regional identity, and that the intersection of markers of difference is produced in the discourses of the sex workers interviewed.