The term “Black Owned Sissy” is a provocative and deeply layered phrase that exists at the volatile intersection of race, gender, sexuality, and power. To the uninitiated, it might sound like a mere pornographic niche or a fringe fetish. However, a deeper analysis reveals it as a complex cultural and psychosocial artifact—a space where historical trauma, contemporary identity politics, and the raw dynamics of consensual power exchange collide. This essay argues that the “Black Owned Sissy” dynamic, while fraught with the potential to replicate oppressive historical hierarchies, also offers a radical framework for reimagining submission, agency, and the subversion of white supremacist masculinity through the lens of erotic capital and racial reparation.
To understand the phrase, one must first deconstruct its components. The “sissy” is not merely an effeminate male; in BDSM and fetish subcultures, the sissy is a specific archetype of erotic submission. He is typically a male-bodied individual who, through ritualized feminization—lingerie, makeup, posture, and speech—voluntarily abdicates the social privileges of traditional masculinity. The sissy’s humiliation is often derived from his perceived failure as a “real man.” However, this failure is almost always measured against a white, heteronormative standard of masculinity. The sissy, therefore, is a figure already in rebellion against the patriarchal order, even if his rebellion is staged through self-debasement.
The modifier “Black Owned” fundamentally alters the power trajectory. In the mainstream American historical imagination, ownership of Black bodies by white people is the foundational sin of chattel slavery. To invert this—to posit a white or non-Black sissy who is “owned” by a Black Master or Domme—is to weaponize historical memory. This is not a return to slavery but a ritualized re-enactment of mastery, with the racial roles reversed. The Black owner in this dynamic wields a form of power that has been denied to Black people for centuries: unilateral, eroticized authority over a white body. As cultural theorist bell hooks argued in “Black Looks: Race and Representation,” the racialized sexual fantasy often serves as a site for the “transgression of racial boundaries,” where the “Other” becomes the source of both fear and desire. Here, the Black owner embodies the forbidden power that whiteness historically hoarded.
The psychological motivations for participants are as intricate as they are varied. For the Black dominant, this role can be a powerful form of psychodramatic reclamation. It is a consensual, ritualized space to perform authority without the threat of lynching or social annihilation. In a world where Black men are often stereotyped as hyper-aggressive brutes or emasculated by systemic racism, the role of the “Owner” allows for a curated, controlled, and deeply respected dominance. It is the antithesis of the “Magical Negro” or the subservient sidekick; it is the Black man as supreme arbiter of another’s dignity and humiliation.
For the sissy—often, though not exclusively, a white male—the appeal lies in a specific form of surrender. Traditional sissy play might involve submission to a generic or white dominant figure, reinforcing a familiar racial hierarchy. “Black Owned” adds a layer of ultimate alterity. The white sissy submits not just to a dominant, but to a figure whose historical and social position is diametrically opposite to his own perceived racial birthright. In doing so, he symbolically abdicates the unearned privileges of whiteness, including the privilege of being the default master. Some practitioners describe this as a form of racial atonement—a consensual, eroticized negotiation of guilt and power. As psychologist Robert Stoller noted, human sexuality is often a “microdot” of larger social conflicts; the “Black Owned Sissy” dynamic condenses centuries of racial terror and desire into a single, controlled scene.
However, this dynamic is not immune to critique. Detractors argue that it dangerously reifies the very stereotypes it seeks to subvert. Does the Black owner not risk performing a caricature of the “Mandingo” or the vengeful slave overseer? Does the white sissy’s performance not reduce Black power to a mere prop for his own sexual gratification—a form of “racially-borrowed” intensity? The line between subversion and replication is razor-thin. If the play is not grounded in rigorous communication, aftercare, and mutual respect for the humanity outside the scene, it can easily tip into a performance of racist pathology. The phrase “Black Owned” must be understood as a negotiated title, not a literal return to property relations. The ethical weight rests on whether the dynamic challenges racial essentialism or merely reinforces it with the polarity reversed.
Furthermore, the commercial dimension cannot be ignored. The rise of online platforms like OnlyFans, Clips4Sale, and Twitter has commodified the “Black Owned Sissy” aesthetic. It is a market-driven niche, where content is produced, priced, and consumed. Capitalism has a way of stripping radical potential from any subculture, turning rebellion into a product. When a white sissy pays a Black dominant for a custom video, is he engaging in reparative psychodrama, or is he simply a consumer buying a fantasy of his own racial comeuppance? The money changes hands, but the systemic wealth gap between Black and white Americans remains. In this light, the “Black Owned” label risks becoming another form of extractive tourism—white guilt packaged and sold back to white desire.
In conclusion, the “Black Owned Sissy” is neither a simple deviance nor a utopian solution to racism. It is a fragile, high-stakes theater of the real. When executed with radical honesty, informed consent, and a critical awareness of history, it offers a space to ritually dismantle the toxic inheritance of white masculinity and allow Black authority to be celebrated as erotic and sovereign. When approached carelessly, it becomes a mirror that reflects the very horrors it hopes to exorcise. Ultimately, the phrase demands that we take the erotic seriously—not as a separate, apolitical realm, but as a primary arena where our deepest anxieties about race, power, and belonging are performed, perverted, and, perhaps, purified. The sissy is owned, but what he truly surrenders is not his body alone—it is the lie of racial neutrality itself.
Most Popular: "Black Owned" Series by Constance Pennington Smythe
This is the most widely reviewed series under this title. It focuses on the psychological and physical transformation of male characters into "sissies" within interracial power-exchange relationships. Plot Overviews: Sissy Fluffy's Downfall
: Follows Frank (renamed Fluffy), a businessman whose wife introduces her Black boss, Master Bill, into their home. Frank is demoted to a "sissy maid" and "Office Slut". White Sissy Slut Training
: A multi-volume series where a character named Pansy is sent to an institute run by "Black Goddesses" to be molded into a servant for his wife and her lovers. Black Owned Trilogy : A collection featuring stories like White Sissy Weekend Release and White Family Sissy
, where wives or mothers orchestrate the feminization of their husbands/sons-in-law. Reader Reviews:
Positive: Readers on Amazon describe the writing as "well written" and "exciting," noting it "keeps the reader turning pages".
Negative: Some reviewers find the stories too short or criticize the extreme themes, with one Amazon UK reviewer calling the content "terrible". Other Notable Titles Black Owned: Sissy Fluffy's Downfall (Audio Download)
Black Owned Sissy primarily appears in two distinct contexts: as a sub-genre of erotic fetish fiction and as a subject of academic study regarding Black queer identity. 1. Erotic Fetish Fiction (Interracial BDSM)
Most search results refer to a niche category of erotic literature and digital content. These stories typically revolve around themes of interracial power dynamics, specifically "sissy" training—where a submissive partner is "molded" into a feminine role under the authority of a Black dominant partner. Key Themes:
Dominance and submission (D/s), "feminization" or sissy training, racialized power play (often referred to as BNWO or Black World Order in fetish communities), and chastity. Prominent Series: Black Owned: White Sissy Slut Training
by Constance Pennington Smythe: A multi-volume series detailing the psychological and physical transformation of submissives Turned: Into a Black Owned White Sissy
: Focuses on manipulation, sissy schools, and service to "Black Masters".
These are predominantly available as Kindle eBooks, audiobooks narrated by specialized dominatrices (e.g., Erica Kent), and short stories on platforms like 2. Academic and Sociological Analysis
In scholarly discourse, the term "sissy" is analyzed within the context of Black queer studies to explore masculinity and "dis-respectability."
Black Owned: White Sissy Slut Training: Vol. 3 eBook - Amazon UK
Without more specific context, it's challenging to provide a more detailed exploration. However, these perspectives highlight the importance of understanding the nuances of identity, culture, and community.
The phrase " Black Owned Sissy " is most commonly associated with a specific subgenre of fetish erotica and adult literature often found on platforms like Amazon and Goodreads. It typically features themes of interracial power dynamics, forced feminization, and submission.
Alternatively, the term can refer to LGBTQ+ Black-owned businesses or cultural figures. Notable examples include: Sissy Mary’s Kitchen : A soul food establishment led by Chef Malik Kemokai.
Black Queer-Owned Businesses: Various community-focused businesses, such as Loudmouth Books, support the intersection of Black and queer identities.
Custom Merchandise: Retailers on platforms like Etsy sell personalized apparel and accessories featuring these specific slogans.
Could you clarify if you are looking for a creative writing prompt, a list of Black-queer owned businesses, or information on a specific book? Black Owned Sissy - Etsy
To understand this topic, one must look past the surface-level tropes and explore how Black creators are reclaiming their narratives in spaces that have historically marginalized or fetishized them. 1. Reclaiming the "Sissy" Narrative
In many underground and kink communities, "sissy" has historically been a derogatory term used to emasculate men. Within the Black community, this takes on an even heavier weight due to the historical hyper-masculinization of Black men. For a Black individual to adopt the "sissy" label is often an act of radical vulnerability.
"Black Owned" in this context refers to agency. It signifies that the individual is the master of their own expression. They are not a prop in someone else’s fantasy; they are the architects of their own identity. This reclamation allows for the exploration of femininity without stripping away the dignity of their Blackness. 2. The Intersection of Race and Kink
The fetishization of Black bodies is a well-documented issue within the LGBTQ+ and BDSM communities. Often, Black individuals in these spaces are relegated to specific stereotypes (e.g., the "Mandingo" or the "Submissive Servant").
The "Black Owned Sissy" movement seeks to disrupt these tropes by:
Centering Black Joy: Moving away from narratives of trauma or racial humiliation and toward pleasure and self-expression. Black Owned Sissy
Community Building: Creating safe spaces (both online and in-person) where Black gender-nonconforming people can explore feminization without the "white gaze" defining the rules.
Economic Empowerment: Many Black creators in this niche utilize platforms like OnlyFans or Fansly to monetize their content directly, ensuring that the "ownership" is both metaphorical and financial. 3. Aesthetics and Cultural Expression
Black sissy culture often blends traditional "sissy" aesthetics (lace, pink, high heels) with distinct markers of Black culture. This might include:
Protective Hairstyles: Seeing a sissy persona rocking laid edges, braids, or a high-quality lace front.
Fashion: Mixing streetwear elements with hyper-feminine lingerie.
Language: Using AAVE (African American Vernacular English) and cultural references that resonate specifically within the Black queer community. 4. The Challenges of Navigating Two Worlds
Despite the empowerment found in these spaces, those who identify with this label often face "double marginalization." They may experience transphobia or homophobia within the broader Black community, and simultaneously face racism within predominantly white "sissy" or kink spaces.
The "Black Owned" prefix serves as a shield and a badge of honor. It tells the world that their body and their performance belong to them, regardless of the systemic pressures surrounding them. 5. The Future of the Movement
As conversations around gender fluidity become more mainstream, the "Black Owned Sissy" identity continues to expand. It is moving beyond the confines of "kink" and entering the realm of performance art and social commentary. It challenges the world to see Blackness as something that can be soft, delicate, and feminine without losing its power.
In conclusion, "Black Owned Sissy" is more than just a keyword; it is a testament to the complexity of identity. It represents the intersection of race, gender, and desire, proving that when Black individuals take ownership of their own narratives, they create something entirely new and undeniably powerful.
Intersectionality and Identity: The intersection of being Black and identifying as or being referred to as a "sissy" brings into play discussions around intersectionality. This concept, coined by scholar Kimberlé Crenshaw, refers to how different aspects of identity (such as race, gender, sexuality, and class) intersect and affect one another. For Black individuals who identify as LGBTQ+ or are perceived through the lens of being a "sissy," there can be compounded challenges due to both racism and homophobia or transphobia.
Community and Empowerment:
Challenges and Opportunities:
Conclusion: The term "Black Owned Sissy" embodies the intersection of race, identity, and economic empowerment. It highlights the importance of inclusivity within communities and the need for safe spaces where individuals can express themselves freely. Understanding and engaging with this term requires an openness to dialogue about identity, community support, and the challenges faced by Black LGBTQ+ individuals. By fostering environments of acceptance and support, we can work towards a more inclusive and equitable society for all.
"Black Owned Sissy" primarily refers to a specific subgenre of adult erotica and fetish content centered on themes of interracial power dynamics, forced feminization, and submission.
If you are looking for specific features or products related to this topic, they are commonly found in the following formats: 1. Literature and Erotica
There are numerous digital and physical books that explore these themes, often involving "sissy" training or "owned" tropes:
Novel Series: Authors like Constance Pennington Smythe and Amy Pink have published several titles under this specific branding, such as Black Owned: Sissy Fluffy's Downfall and BNWO FOREVER: Black Owned Sissy
Thematic Tropes: These stories frequently feature elements of chastity, cuckolding, and submissive feminization within an interracial context. 2. Apparel and Accessories
Specialty retailers offer clothing and accessories designed with these specific captions and themes:
Custom Merchandise: Platforms like Etsy and AliExpress host shops that sell items such as lingerie, graphic t-shirts with thematic captions (e.g., "Owned by Mistress"), and "Queen of Spades" (QOS) apparel.
Specific Designs: Items often include pink and black color schemes, lace detailing, or explicit text referencing the "owned" status. 3. Digital Training Tools
For those interested in the interactive or "training" aspect of the fetish:
Sissy Trainer Apps: There are Android-based AI "Sissy Trainer" apps and digital guides (PDFs) that provide tasks, games, and crossdressing tips focused on feminization.
Training Files: Some sellers provide complementary "training files" alongside physical clothing purchases to be used during submissive sessions. Amazon.com: Constance Pennington-Smythe: Kindle Store
Title:
Reclaiming the Gaze: Identity, Power, and Performance in Black-Owned Sissy Spaces
Author:
[Fictional] Dr. Kofi Mensah, Department of African American Studies and Gender Studies, Howard University
Abstract:
This paper explores the emergence and significance of “Black-owned sissy” digital and physical spaces—online communities, adult content platforms, and kink dungeons—where Black individuals who identify with or reclaim the term “sissy” negotiate agency, racialized desire, and gendered performance. Drawing on semi-structured interviews and digital ethnography (n=25), the study finds that Black sissy identity is neither a simple adoption of white feminization tropes nor a rejection of Black masculinity. Instead, participants articulate a deliberate, often subversive, performance that critiques both hegemonic Black masculinity and mainstream sissy culture’s racial blind spots. The paper argues that Black ownership of these spaces—whether through content creation, community moderation, or studio production—shifts the power dynamics from fetishized object to desiring subject, enabling new forms of racial and gender play that challenge anti-Blackness within kink and queer communities.
Keywords:
Sissy identity, Black queer studies, kink, race and gender performance, digital intimacy, community ownership
1. Introduction
The term “sissy” has a violent history—used to police gender nonconformity, particularly among cisgender men and boys. In recent decades, it has been partially reclaimed within BDSM and erotic roleplay communities to describe a submissive, hyper-feminine identity often performed by AMAB individuals. However, mainstream sissy culture (e.g., on Reddit, Twitter, hypno porn) frequently centers white femininity as the aspirational ideal, while fetishizing or erasing Black bodies except through racial stereotypes (e.g., “Black bull” vs. “white sissy”).
This paper investigates an emerging counter-narrative: Black-owned sissy spaces. These are explicitly created, moderated, and consumed by Black individuals who identify as sissies or who engage in sissy play. We ask: How do Black sissy creators navigate the dual pressures of anti-Blackness within kink and gender normativity within Black communities? What does “ownership” mean in this context—economic, discursive, or psychological?
2. Literature Review
3. Methodology
We conducted 25 in-depth virtual interviews with self-identified Black sissies who are also owners or co-owners of at least one online space (e.g., Discord server, OnlyFans account, private kink group). Participants ranged in age from 22–45; all were based in the US or UK. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis informed by Black feminist and queer of color critique.
4. Findings
4.1. Rejecting the “Black Bull” Binary
Participants consistently reported feeling excluded from both “traditional” sissy spaces (where they were expected to play hypermasculine “tops”) and Black hetero-normative spaces (where femininity in AMAB bodies was stigmatized). Ownership allowed them to author roles where submission and femininity were not racialized as weakness.
4.2. Aesthetic Decolonization
Black sissy creators deliberately replace white-centric sissy tropes (e.g., blonde wigs, “pink princess” aesthetics) with Afrofuturist, neo-soul, or Black camp styles. One participant stated: “My sissyhood is sequins and durags. It’s not about becoming a white woman; it’s about becoming my own fantasy.”
4.3. Economic Ownership as Resistance
Running a Black-owned sissy platform (e.g., clip store or membership site) allowed creators to set racial boundaries, decline racist requests, and fund community care. However, some noted that payment processors often flag Black kink content as “high risk” more quickly than white-run equivalents.
5. Discussion
Black-owned sissy spaces do not simply invert racial hierarchies (e.g., “Black dominants, white submissives”) but instead create parallel erotic universes where race and gender are performed as playful, consensual, and self-determined. These spaces challenge the assumption that sissy identity is inherently self-loathing or that Black gender nonconformity is solely tragic. Limitations include the small sample and the overrepresentation of middle-class, digitally literate participants.
6. Conclusion
The “Black-owned sissy” is not an oxymoron but a radical site of agency. By controlling the means of erotic production—spaces, narratives, and aesthetics—Black sissies refuse to be props in white fantasies. Future research should examine transmasculine and nonbinary perspectives, as well as offline community building.
7. References
(Selected fictional examples for illustration)
If you are seeking to write a real paper on this subject, I strongly advise consulting with Black queer and kink-affirming scholars, securing IRB approval, and centering participant voices with care. The term itself remains contentious; some prefer “Black fem(me) submissives” or “gender expansive bottoms.” Sensitivity is paramount.
primarily refers to titles in the adult erotica and fetish literature genre, specifically focusing on themes of interracial feminization and submission. Identified Contexts Literature & Erotica: Several books carry this or very similar titles, such as: Black-Owned Sissy Chantelle Cage (2017) Lola's Dark Desires: Totally Black Owned Sissy
Black Owned Sissy: A Roommate's Transformation into Personal Plaything Kitty Delarue Merchandise:
The phrase appears as a descriptor for niche clothing items listed on platforms like How to Proceed
To create a report on "Black Owned Sissy," I'll need more context about what you're referring to. "Black Owned" could imply a business or entity owned by Black individuals, and "Sissy" might refer to a variety of things, such as a term used in LGBTQ+ communities, a nickname, or something else entirely.
Without more specific information, it's challenging to provide a detailed report. However, I can offer a general outline that might be relevant:
To understand the term, we must break it down into its core components.
Thus, "Black Owned Sissy" describes a submissive (usually white, Asian, or Latino) who has entered a structured power exchange with a Black Dominant, where sissification is a primary tool of that authority.
In the sprawling, often anonymized landscape of online adult communities and BDSM subcultures, few search terms evoke as much immediate cultural and psychological complexity as "Black Owned Sissy."
At first glance, this phrase might appear to be just another niche fetish tag. However, for those within the lifestyle—particularly Black dominant figures and sissies of various racial backgrounds—it represents a distinct intersection of power exchange (D/s), gender exploration, racial identity, and social taboo.
This article aims to deconstruct the keyword "Black Owned Sissy." We will explore what this dynamic actually entails, how it differs from mainstream sissy culture, the psychological drivers behind it, and the crucial importance of navigating race play and fetishization with consent and respect.
tropes—that focuses on themes of interracial power dynamics, forced feminization, and submission to Black individuals.
If you are drafting a guide for this lifestyle or creative writing, it typically centers on several key pillars: 1. Conceptual Pillars Forced Feminization:
The process of a male-presenting individual adopting feminine traits, clothing, and behaviors, often at the behest of a dominant partner. Interracial Power Dynamics:
The central theme involves a racial hierarchy where a Black dominant (man or woman) holds ownership or authority over a non-Black submissive. Total Submission:
In this roleplay, the submissive (often called a "sissy") is treated as property or a dedicated servant, prioritizing the needs and desires of their "owner" above all else. 2. Common Roleplay Rules
Guides for this trope often include strict behavioral protocols for the submissive: Third-Person Speech:
Submissives may be required to refer to themselves in the third person (e.g., "this slave" or "this object") and avoid using "I" or "me". Permission-Based Living:
Every action, from entering a room to asking a question, requires explicit permission from the dominant. Feminization Tasks:
Regular maintenance of a feminine appearance, such as body shaving, wearing specific lingerie, or applying makeup. Service & Tribute:
The submissive often performs domestic duties (cleaning, cooking) or provides financial "tribute" as a sign of their commitment. 3. Safety and Consent
Because these themes involve heavy power imbalances and racialized roleplay, "proper" guides emphasize the following: Hard Limits:
Explicitly defining what acts or language are strictly off-limits before any roleplay begins. Safe Words:
Using a tiered system (Green/Yellow/Red) to manage intensity and stop the scene immediately if boundaries are crossed. Negotiation: The term “Black Owned Sissy” is a provocative
Ensuring both parties are fully aware that the power exchange is a consensual performance. Sissy Fluffy's Downfall (Chastity Cuckold Tales Book 14)
The Rise of Black-Owned Sissy Businesses: Breaking Down Barriers and Building Community
In recent years, the term "sissy" has gained popularity, particularly within the LGBTQ+ community. It refers to a subculture that celebrates femininity, often associated with men who express themselves in a more feminine manner. However, within this community, there has been a growing need for representation and inclusivity, particularly for Black-owned businesses catering to this niche.
The emergence of Black-owned Sissy businesses marks a significant milestone in the fight for diversity, equity, and inclusion. These entrepreneurs are not only providing products and services tailored to the Sissy community but also creating safe spaces for Black individuals to express themselves freely.
Historical Context: The Lack of Representation
Historically, the Sissy community has been predominantly white and male-dominated. This has led to a lack of representation and understanding of the unique experiences and challenges faced by Black Sissies. The absence of Black-owned businesses catering to this community has meant that many have had to rely on mainstream, often white-owned establishments that fail to understand their specific needs.
Moreover, the intersectionality of being Black and Sissy can be particularly challenging. Black individuals already face systemic barriers and racism within their communities and society at large. Adding the layer of being Sissy can exacerbate feelings of isolation and exclusion.
The Power of Black-Owned Businesses
The rise of Black-owned Sissy businesses is more than just a trend; it's a movement. These businesses are not only providing much-needed products and services but also fostering a sense of community and belonging. By supporting Black-owned businesses, individuals can help to:
Examples of Black-Owned Sissy Businesses
Several Black-owned Sissy businesses have emerged in recent years, catering to the needs of this community. Some examples include:
Challenges and Opportunities
While the growth of Black-owned Sissy businesses is promising, there are still challenges to overcome. Some of these challenges include:
Despite these challenges, there are opportunities for growth and collaboration. By supporting Black-owned Sissy businesses, individuals can help to build a more inclusive and vibrant community.
Conclusion
The emergence of Black-owned Sissy businesses marks a significant step towards creating a more inclusive and diverse community. These entrepreneurs are breaking down barriers, building safe spaces, and promoting economic empowerment. As the Sissy community continues to grow and evolve, it's essential to support and amplify Black-owned businesses.
By doing so, we can:
The future of the Sissy community looks bright, and with the rise of Black-owned businesses, we can expect to see a more vibrant, inclusive, and supportive community for all.
Given the lack of specific details, let's assume "Black Owned Sissy" could refer to a hypothetical business or brand that is owned by Black individuals and focuses on LGBTQ+ community services or products.
Without more specific details, this report is highly speculative. If "Black Owned Sissy" refers to something else entirely, please provide more context so a more accurate and detailed report can be offered.
Empowering Black-Owned Businesses: The Rise of Sissy
The term "sissy" often carries connotations of subculture and self-expression. When paired with the descriptor "black-owned," it signifies a business venture that not only celebrates individuality but also contributes to the rich tapestry of Black entrepreneurship.
A Brief History and Cultural Significance
Black-owned businesses have been a cornerstone of community development and economic empowerment for decades. From beauty salons and barbershops to restaurants and retail stores, these enterprises have provided essential services, fostered a sense of community, and created opportunities for economic mobility.
Meet the Sissy Entrepreneurs
Meet Jane, the owner of Sissy Styles, a boutique offering bespoke fashion and accessories. Jane's journey began with a passion for design and a vision to create a brand that celebrates individuality. With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of her target market, Jane has established Sissy Styles as a go-to destination for those seeking unique and stylish products.
Challenges and Triumphs
As a black-owned business, Sissy Styles faces unique challenges, from accessing capital to navigating systemic barriers. Despite these obstacles, Jane remains committed to her vision, leveraging social media and community outreach to build a loyal customer base.
The Impact of Black-Owned Sissy Businesses
The growth of black-owned businesses like Sissy Styles has a profound impact on the community:
Supporting Black-Owned Sissy Businesses
As consumers, we have the power to make a positive impact by supporting black-owned businesses like Sissy Styles:
By embracing and supporting black-owned businesses like Sissy Styles, we can foster a more inclusive and vibrant economy, one that celebrates diversity and promotes growth.