Issuu

Sex Issue 2017

Not your parentsâ€™ sex life As society evolves, so does being sexy

The Columbia Chronicle | February 13, 2017

Editor’s Note

onversations about sex, gender and everything in between are not new. People have always been fascinated with these secretive subjects, but how much have conversations really changed since your parents or grandparents were in their 20s? Every year, The Chronicle honors Valentine’s Day with its annual “Sex Issue,” produced in addition to its regular content. Reporters and editors use this supplement to explore sexual topics that need to be discussed, no matter how controversial or embarrassing. This year’s theme, “Not Your Parents’ Sex Life,” explores the evolving landscape of sex and sexuality that has moved toward more accepting and exploratory conversations about everything from whether sexual identity labels are still necessary, how men can fight sexual exploitation and how sex and kinks are depicted in media and everyday life. Some issues remain at a standstill, however. Problems such as systemic racism in pornography as well as double standards regarding pictures of males and females on social media still exist today and likely will take decades to overcome. We also explore the perpetuation of unattainable body images and

MANAGEMENT

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF MANAGING EDITORS

Megan Bennett Arabella Breck Zoë Eitel DIGITAL CONTENT MANAGER Lauren Kostiuk AD & BUSINESS MANAGER Charlie Connelly ART DIRECTOR Alexander Aghayere

the warping of the minds of young people who try to obtain the unobtainable with surgery or other alterations to their natural appearance. However, the fact that discussions about these issues are beginning to emerge proves there is a slow, yet import ant progress toward equity and inclusion inside and out side the bedroom. To broaden the pathway toward sexual comfort and liberation for people of all genders and with various sexual preferences, these conversations and stories need to continue. The Chronicle staff hopes you enjoy 2017’s “Not Your COPY CHIEF Parents’ Sex Life’s” fun—yet still informative—stories COPY EDITORS and commentaries.

WRITERS Ariel Parrella-Aureli Blair Paddock Kendrah Villiesse Connor Carynski Marisa Sobotka Brooke Pawling Stennett Carolyn Bradley James Firkins

COPY Carolyn Bradley James Firkins Lauren Carlton

GRAPHICS

-The Chronicle Staff

SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

Zoë Haworth Gabriel de la Mora James Tsitiridis

PHOTOGRAPHY SENIOR PHOTO EDITORS PHOTO EDITORS

G-Jun Yam Wesley Herold Esther Bell Kevin Tiongson

ADVERTISING

MARKETING CONSULTANTS

WEB

Noah Kelly Conrad Queen Micha Thurston

WEBMASTER

Lou Foglia

OPERATIONS

OFFICE ASSISTANT

Ethan Stocking-Anderson

SENIOR STAFF

» GETTY IMAGES

GENERAL MANAGER Chris Richert FACULTY ADVISER Len Strazewski ASSISTANT FACULTY ADVISER Stephanie Goldberg

The Chronicle is a student-produced publication of Columbia College Chicago and does not necessarily represent, in whole or in part, the views of college administrators, faculty or students. Main line: (312) 369-8999 All text, photos and graphics are the property of The Advertising: (312) 369-8984 Chronicle and may not be reproduced or published Campus: (312) 369-8964 Metro: (312) 369-8966 without written permission. Arts & Culture: (312) 369-8969 Editorials are the opinions of the Editorial Board Opinions: (312) 369-8967 of The Chronicle. Columns are the opinions of Copy: (312) 369-8976 the author(s). Photo: (312) 369-8973 Sports & Health: (312) 369-8970 Views expressed in this publication are those of Permission/Reproductions: (312) 369-8955 the writer and are not the opinions of The Chronicle, General Manager: (312) 369-8955 Columbia’s Journalism Department or Columbia Faculty Adviser: (312) 369-8903 College Chicago. Letters can be emailed to Letters to the editor must include full name, year, major and phone number. All letters are edited for Chronicle@colum.edu or mailed to: grammar and may be cut due to a limit of space. The Columbia Chronicle The Chronicle holds the right to limit any one per600 S. Michigan Ave. son’s submissions to three per semester. Chicago, IL. 60605

The Sex Issue | The Columbia Chronicle

STUDENT CONFESSIONS Columbia students responded to The Chronicle’s call for sexual confessions. All names have been changed for privacy purposes.

Do you have a favorite song to get it on to? “Anything like Justin Timberlake. 20/20.” - M. POPE “Silence.” - C. PERRY:

What are your best tips for giving good oral? “Use your tongue.” - M. POPE “Communication is always key. Listen to the breathing, too.” - C. PERRY “When I had a tongue ring, it was the best.” - B. BUSH

“Probably anything EDM. Just get crazy.” - J. SANDERS: “Ignition the remix.” - B. BUSH

Do you prefer to have sex with lights on or off? “Lights on.” - C. PERRY

Do you prefer to have sex with socks on or off? “No socks; you are already getting pretty sweaty so you got to let those bad boys breathe.” - C. PERRY “No socks. Back in high school one of my friends had a dream—at the time she was dating this guy—and in her dream they were about to have sex, but he was like ‘Wait. I have to put my socks on.’ That was the punchline of the dream and I always remember that.” - M. POPE “I don’t really have a preference. I guess socks off.” - J. SANDERS “No socks.” - B. BUSH

» GABRIEL DE LA MORA/CHRONICLE

“Off. I just I like it better in the dark, I don’t know why.” - M. POPE “The lights on is just not fun.” - J. SANDERS “A dim light, but I don’t care either way.” - B. BUSH

What’s your kinkiest moment? “I did it in a movie theater once.” - M. POPE “Probably being choked during sex.” - B. BUSH

What’s your craziest fantasy? “Maybe being tied up.” - M. POPE “Handcuffs would be pretty dope.” - J. SANDERS “Probably sleeping with a teacher. It would be mysterious.” - C. PERRY “Being pinned up against a wall.” - B. BUSH

Do you have a funny onenight stand memory? “It was 6 a.m. and I was texting a girl I was interested in and I said, ‘Hey do you ever leave your house at 6 a.m. to sleep with a guy?’ and she said ‘I am on my way.’” - C. PERRY “It was Halloween two years ago. I hooked up with this guy and he was the Joker and he had Sharpie tattoos all over him. The next day, my sheets were just covered in Sharpie and I never got it out. It was really unfortunate.” - M. POPE

What’s your most embarrassing sex experience? “In a car super late at night when someone knocks on the window. That was probably the worst.” - J. SANDERS “The first time I got a handy was the most awkward thing because it was my first girlfriend at the time and she didn’t know what she was doing, and my glasses fell off and made the loudest clunk and we just had to stop. It was so awkward.” - C. PERRY “It was my 21st birthday. Drunk sex happens and basically it slipped into the wrong hole. That sobered me up in two seconds.” - B. BUSH

What’s your biggest turn on? “Whispering in my ear.” - M. POPE “I guess really surprising shit. Like, ‘Yo let’s go bang right now’ and it is in the middle of the day and you’re like ‘alright.’” - J. SANDERS “Someone who is jazzed about life.” - C. PERRY “Tattoos.” - B. BUSH

The Columbia Chronicle | February 13, 2017

STAFF CONFESSIONS I was having morning sex with my boyfriend one time when, all of sudden, I got my period mid-sex. To make matters worse, this was only the second time we were hooking up. I felt so bad I ended up buying him new sheets the next day. One time, I rented a hotel room with my significant other in Milwaukee. We went to a concert, got a nice buzz, and then I consumed the best dish known to mankind: a heaping bowl of chili. I knew things were going to get physical, but I wasn’t going to not finish the entire bowl. As we were getting into it, I jumped up in a cold sweat and projectile vomited into the hotel bathroom sink. Luckily, the hotel provided plenty of extra towels, and my partner didn’t care. Just like I finished the chili, we finished the deed.

I like to be choked during sex. One time my boyfriend did it too hard, so I passed out. He didn’t even notice because he was so in to it. I met a “cute” Irish boy at a club in Chicago. I was pretty tipsy from several free drinks and thought, “Why not?” Next thing I remember, we were hooking up on Oak Street Beach while the sun was rising. Still to this day, I cannot describe what he looked like or how we got to the beach. The first time a guy ever went down on me, I heard my phone—placed right next to his head on the bed— start to vibrate right as I was about to get off. It was my dad calling. Talk about a lady-boner killer.

Whatever happens in Europe stays in Europe, right? When I was traveling in Berlin, I had awkward shower sex with my German friend in a hostel bathroom in downtown Friedrichshain at 3 a.m. The condom broke twice, and it was not pleasant by any means. The shower ledge was digging into my butt like a shovel and things were not progressing—but it makes for a hilarious story that still makes me smile today!

One time, I snuck into the Drake Hotel and was hooking up with a guy in an empty, unlocked meeting room until a very friendly security guard found us and told us to go home.

I went to visit my best friend at UIUC for my birthday last year that resulted in hooking up with a friend of hers in his frat house that night. After we hooked up, which only lasted for about 4.5 minutes, he asked to call me an Uber before I could even put my clothes back on. Happy 20th birthday to me! Last summer, I had a threesome with two of my high school friends. It was so funny and awkward that I was laughing most of the time. We tried it on the bed and in the shower, but it wasn’t like porn and did not work well. I don’t talk to one of the friends anymore, but I don’t care.

During my first year after high school, my 35-year-old former gym teacher and I started texting and made plans to hook up in his office/ classroom. He was also my sibling’s coach and teacher at the time. I used to go and visit him during his lunch hour, and we would flirt and talk about our plans until his next class period. We would also sext, and I would send him nudes periodically. It never got past that, though.

My boyfriend took me home for a weekend to visit his mom for the first time. When his mom left for her night-shift job, we released all of our pent-up sexual energy by going at it on her living room floor. It was the best sex we ever had, but I still feel pangs of guilt from waking up her neighbors.

» GABRIEL DE LA MORA/CHRONICLE

We Won! Fox TV’s “Best of Chicago”!

VALENTINE’S DAY LOVE POTION PACKAGE CHICAGO’S PREMIERE BOUTIQUE HOTEL INVITES YOU TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT WITH THE LOVE DOCTOR. MIXOLOGISTS FROM FEMME DU COUPE WILL BE MAKING HOUSE CALLS TO YOUR GUEST ROOM, CRAFTING APHRODISIAC LOVE POTION COCKTAILS FOR YOU AND YOUR LOVED ONE.

5331 W. Belmont, Chicago $30 Piercings Students get 10% off!

The Sex Issue | The Columbia Chronicle

SHOW YOUR PARTNER YOU CARE. Affordable STD screenings and birth control are available at the Planned Parenthood Loop health center at 18 S. Michigan Ave. Insurance Accepted. Make an appointment today.

1.800.230.PLAN www.ppil.org

Planned Parenthood of Illinois

The Columbia Chronicle | February 13, 2017

Anyone can be ARABELLA BRECK MANAGING EDITOR “USE IT IF it feels right to you,” said

Lindsay King-Miller on who can identify as queer. King-Miller, a freelance writer and author of “Ask a Queer Chick: A Guide to Sex, Love, and Life for Girls who Dig Girls,” said in a Feb. 3 email interview that she first encountered the word queer in LGBT student groups and now thinks of it as the word that best fits her identity. “My identity is more complex than I feel comfortable summing up in either bisexual or gay, and queer communicates that most effectively,” King-Miller said. According to a Jan. 11 Gallup online public poll of more than 1.6 million people, the number of Americans who identify as part of

queer

the LGBT community increased from 3.5 percent in 2012 to 4.1 percent in 2016. The survey did not ask whether people identified as queer, but the term has become popular among younger LGBT people who may not want to use specific labels. Queer was considered an offensive term at one time but has now been reclaimed by the community, which is how King-Miller said she has always known it. However, the term did not need to be reclaimed, according to Jonathan D. Katz, the director of the visual studies doctorate program at the University at Buffalo in New York and one of the co-founders of Queer Nation San Francisco. “I want to push back against the idea that it was the reclaiming of a negative term because if you go back historically, it was actually

a positive term in the early 20th century,” Katz said. “The term has had ups and downs. It has been used to oppress, and it has been used to liberate.” Oliver Fici, a sophomore cinema art + science major, said he first became involved in the queer community in high school and has seen the term as a way for people to question their identity and comfortably move between different sexual and gender identities. “My understanding of it, as I have experienced it, is queer is a very good way of not being sure,” Fici said. The term queer also has a broader political and ideological connotation, Katz said. “[A woman once] said to me, ‘I am a heterosexual, female Republican. Can I be queer?’ I said ‘Yes, of course,’” Katz said.

According to Katz, the woman spoke to him at a panel and said she was witnessing homophobia toward her gay son in a Republican-dominated community. Katz told the woman she was queer because queer means rejecting a system with a harsh separation between homosexuality and heterosexuality, and he saw that in her story. “Queer was an attempt to free the movement and to actually do something which we thought of as generous and giving to the straight world,” Katz said. “We won’t be gay and then you don’t have to be straight, and then we can all just be people together.” The movement Katz is part of is driven by the rejection of terms like lesbian and gay, which Katz said are intrinsically oppressive. “Gay and lesbian seem to always march under the banner of minority status,” Katz said. “Dominant, straight culture created a gay and lesbian minority, so no matter how successful we were at our politics, the most that

we could ever hope for was that we would be a tolerated minority within a majority.” King-Miller said lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and many other identity terms are still important and valid for many people in the LGBT community, but queer provides something more unifying, especially when it comes to social justice. “If I only fight for liberation for gay-leaning bisexual cis women because that’s what I am, my effectiveness will be extremely limited,” King-Miller said. “If I fight for queer liberation, I’m part of something larger.” At its core, the queer movement should be about the rejection of traditional labels and the acceptance of different types of people, Katz said. “There is nobody who cannot identify as queer,” Katz said. “It is a conceptual term, not an embodied term. It is about what you think, not about what you do.” abreck@chroniclemail.com

The Sex Issue | The Columbia Chronicle

Finding bae in the

big city

The Chronicle did some investigating and spoke with Chicagoans to find out what kind of guys and girls you will see—or maybe hook up with—in the city’s most popular neighborhoods.

Boystown Girls

Occupation: Pilates instructor Pro: Just want to dance and

have a good time.

You would find them: Look-

ing for a gay best friend. Drink of choice: Long Island iced tea Shit they would say: “I’m not drunk.”

Guys

Occupation: Sales associate by day, drag queen by night Pro: It’s pretty obvious what team they’re playing for. You would find them: On the dance floor of Scarlett, Berlin or literally any club. Drink of choice: Vegas/Berlin bombs Shit they would say: “Yaaaasssssss.”

Wicker Park

Wrigleyville

Girls

Occupation: Fashion/fitness/

Girls

lifestyle/vegan blogger Pro: Knows all the weird, obscure hangouts. You would find them: Already planning their outfit for Pitchfork. Drink of choice: A cocktail you have never heard of Shit they would say: “Oh this? It’s vintage.” It really was on sale at Urban Outfitters.

Occupation: Waitress or bartender at sports bar Pro: Interested in sports or will at least pretend to be . You would find them: Lusting after Kris Bryant. Drink of choice: A beer they don’t actually like Shit they would say: “Buy me a pizza and touch my butt.”

Guys

Occupation: Back-up accordion

Occupation: #1 Cubs fan Pro: Will take you to a Cubs

player for an indie folk band Pro: Can get you into shows for free at Subterranean and Double Door—at least until Double Door closed. You would find them: Listening to their favorite Icelandic rock band. Drink of Choice: PBR Shit they would say: “Sorry, I only listen to vinyl.”

game.

You would find them: Trying

to convince someone that being from the suburbs counts as being from Chicago. Drink of choice: Jack & Coke Shit they would say: “Bro, why aren’t you flying the W? It’s game day!”

Lincoln Park Girls

Occupation: Pinterest addict Pro: Knows the best brunch spots. You would find them: Shopping at

lululemon before meeting a friend at Summerhouse. Drink of choice: Mimosa Shit they would say: “I’m so sore from my Core Power session this morning.”

Gold Coast Guys

Occupation: Mooching off their

parents Pro: Doesn’t have a job, so they can spend all their time with you. You would find them: Shotgunning a beer or doing a keg stand with their 2008 pledge class. Drink of choice: Goose Island 312, Chicago represent Shit they would say: “Bros before hoes.”

Girls

Guys

and all of the city beaches. You would find them: Lurking around the Viagra Triangle for a sugar daddy. Drink of Choice: A cosmopolitan or a Sex on the Beach Shit they would say: “They spelled my name wrong on my Starbucks cup.”

after a one-night stand. You would find them: Buying unnecessary, expensive items or meeting with a business partner at Tavern on Rush. Drink of choice: Whiskey, hold the rocks Shit they would say: “I’m pumped for the next TEDx conference.”

Occupation: Young, urban socialite Pro: Lives close to Lake Michigan

Occupation: Business consultant Pro: Will pay for your Uber home

» JAMES TSITIRIDIS/CHRONICLE

The Columbia Chronicle | February 13, 2017

OUR BEST BLOWJOB TIPS

GETTING AHEAD IN THE BEDROOM ARABELLA BRECK & LAUREN KOSTIUK MANAGING EDITOR & DIGITAL CONTENT MANAGER

COMMENTARY s the instructor f lipped the store sign from open to closed and put up curtains to block the front windows, women of all ages began to take their seats around a few tables. We made small talk as upbeat music like the “The Pina Colada Song” and “Come on Eileen” played in the background. On the tables were all the supplies we would need: condoms, a variety of dildos, different kinds of lube and a pen and paper to take notes. As we tore the condom wrapper open and rolled it onto our chosen dildo, there was no turning back. Class was in session. When we were first asked if we wanted to attend a sex class and write about our experience for The Chronicle, we figured at the very least it would be something we could look back at and laugh about. While neither of us thought we would ever be attending a class like this, let alone writing about one, our three years of journalism school and investigative reporting courses really prepared us for this. Walking into the shop, we were a little apprehensive and uncomfortable. We really did not know what a sex class was, but as we settled in, it quickly became apparent that the class was an open, safe environment for women to express their curiosity about sex and foreplay.

Surprisingly, we were actually the youngest students in the class. Most women were in their mid 30s and 40s; some were even older. They were open about their personal sexual experiences and gave us some helpful tips like how to stop your gag reflex by holding your hand in a fist. We even discussed awkward sex stories. We were surprised that these women waited so long to take a sex class. Presumably many of them have been sexually active for decades, and it seems more practical to learn how to give a great blowjob while you are in your 20s. A possible explanation for the demographic of the class is that younger women do not want to admit that their sex life might get dull because they don’t know the perfect blowjob methods. We were definitely awkward about being in the class at first too, but soon we felt like we were learning and getting a head start on our sex lives. Women young and old should try to get over their fear of giving head to a dildo in a room of 20 women because the experience could actually be beneficial and open up communication between you and your friends as well as you and your partner. First, we discussed lube. Most people just think of lube as a tool to make sex and handjobs easier, but they don’t consider it the sexiest thing to whip out before getting it on.

We then discovered lube comes in flavors like Cinnamoan and Orangasmic, which honestly tasted better than the free snacks they provided. We also learned about the varieties of lube for different types of sexual activities. Our instructor said you can use silicone-based lube on your body but should use water-based lube with sex toys. She also suggested we avoid using lube containing sugar on anything that will go inside us because sugar can quickly lead to unwanted issues like yeast infections. Be aware that most of the f lavored lubes do contain sugar for flavor. Our instructor reviewed the basic handjob techniques. These ones took us back to our first times in high school when everything felt awkward and we closed our eyes and hoped for the best. Besides demonstrating the basic methods, our instructor also taught us some more complex handjob choreography. One key tip we learned when giving a handjob is switching between a full hand and just your thumb and finger—it should look like the OK sign—creating a ring going up and down. Also, changing up the speed and using different parts of your hand—like your knuckles instead of your palms— helps build anticipation. When the instructor mentioned the frenulum, everyone tried to remember what they learned way back in sex ed class. Turns out that the small ridge on the underside of the penis right under the tip was an important part of many of the best handjob and blowjob meth-

Be patient

Don’t worry if you’re starting to think you are taking too long to make him

ods and can give your guy an unexpected and pleasurable sensation. Next, we broke out the Cinnamoan lube and started on blowjobs. We took it slow as the instructor told us to think of the dildo as an ice cream cone on a hot day and taught us the lickn-kiss method for which you lick and kiss your way up and down the shaft of the penis. She reminded us it is OK to be a little dirty and sloppy when it comes to oral. As the class progressed, sometimes the moves felt like trying to rub your stomach and pat your head at the same time, but the instructor was patient and demonstrated each move several times and came around to each table. We also learned gag ref lex tricks like bending backward to elongate your neck and inching down slowly by licking and letting your tongue pull your mouth down. At one point we put our mouths around the dildos and hummed “Row Row Row Your Boat” because humming plays with different sensations. While this method is fun, we suggest you to pick a different song if this is something you want to try out. Overall, our instructor encouraged more communication from both parties about what feels good and what doesn’t. We even received diplomas— which are now proudly displayed on our fridges—and left class feeling like educated, confident women ready to take on the world and the bedroom. Now we’re just wondering when guys will take the hint and learn some techniques besides saying the ABCs when going down on a lady. chronicle@colum.edu

come. You can even do a little teasing before building up momentum.

Go deep

To decrease your gag reflex, lean your head back and hold your hand in a fist with your thumb against your palm. You might look a little weird and it kind of sounds like an old wives’ tale, but it really works.

Don’t bite

This is pretty obvious but be careful, especially when going deep. It is okay if your teeth graze his penis a little but nothing ruins an intimate moment more than accidentally clenching your jaw down and causing a serious injury.

Eye contact When going down on

him, it is easy to forget to look at him but a little eye contact can go a long way. Porn stars tend to use this technique a lot, but that doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t try it out too.

Switch it up

Blowjobs and handjobs do not have to be exclusive activities. By going between using your hand and your mouth, you can mix up sensations and give your jaw a break if it gets tired.

To post or not to post: The double standards of social media nudes KENDRAH VILLIESSE of her classmates say that women ARTS & CULTURE REPORTER only take selfies because they want to “whore out.” That inspired her HAVE YOU EVER had one of those to create the private Facebook days when you felt confident and group Selfie Whores. flawless strutting around the The goal of Selfie Whores is house in underwear? You might to promote body positivity and even take a stripped-down self- empowerment and establish a ie, but then the anxiety sets in: positive space where everyone can Should you post it and if you do, be themselves, without Facebook what kind of comments are you users reporting them for showing their natural bodies. The group likely to get? Although some women can now has 2,000 members who wear underwear and pose topless post pictures of themselves, both for selfies without incurring criti- clothed and nude, to promote concism, many still suffer from a dou- fidence and female empowerment. “If you are wearing a bathing ble standard in society that denies them a broad range of acceptable suit and you can see any pubic attire and body types in their hair, that photo can be flagged and social media photos. removed,” Hoyer said. “Which is While attending a communi- ridiculous because how many phocations class at Loyola University, tos of guys—first of all without senior Madison Hoyer heard one their shirt, and second of all with

a ‘happy trail’ or something to that extent— where you see that stuff showing, [and] it is not an issue?” People in society should be accepting of each other’s different body types, according to Hoyer. “It is our body, it’s natural, [so] there is absolutely no reason why [our photos] should be flagged for being too inappropriate,” Hoyer said. What is socially acceptable for women and men to reveal in their photos is a source of considerable debate, says Olga Goldenberg, an assistant professor in Columbia’s Humanities, History & Social Sciences Department.

The Sex Issue | The Columbia Chronicle Comments on posts can either be empowering or harsh depending on the person writing them, Goldenberg said. People who are supportive will call the image empowering, while those who are opposed will see the photo as desperate. “We have evolved in acceptance and expressions of our sexuality,” Goldenberg added. “But we haven’t evolved in double standards, that things are okay for men and not for women.”

The first step toward resolving the double standard is to recognize that there is a problem and then begin to talk about it with others, Goldenberg said. Another option is to just ignore the negative comments and post what you want, as some millennials are doing. Many young are beginning to feel more comfortable in their own bodies and are starting to post on social media whatever makes them feel confident, according to Madeline Lecompte, a sophomore advertising major at Columbia. “You just have to take [the nasty and negative comments] with a grain of salt,” Lecompte said. “Imagine all of these celebrities that are putting themselves out there, and they are getting tons of backlash. Yeah, it does suck sometimes when someone calls you out for something, but you need to just brush it off and post even more, only if you feel comfortable doing that.” kvilliesse@chroniclemail.com

Ideally located in the heart of historic Printer’s Row sits Hotel Blake, a boutique Chicago Hotel. Whether you visit Chicago for business or pleasure, Hotel Blake offers upscale Chicago Accommodations along with impeccable service. When making reservations mention the Columbia College Friends and Family rate for special discounts and offers.

The Columbia Chronicle | February 13, 2017

Toying with the family business » Courtesy DOC JOHNSON

ZOË EITEL MANAGING EDITOR GROWING UP, CHAD Braverman had no idea what his father did for a living. He was a teen when he found out the family business was sex—specifically sex toys. After refurbishing a rubber company, Braverman’s father and his business partner Reuben Sturman started the sex toy company Doc Johnson in California in 1976, making it older than

Braverman’s 34 years. Sturman is no longer part of the business now run solely by the Bravermans. Braverman said his father kept the business a secret to keep his son’s peers and their parents from judging him. “I get why my parents did it, but now that I’m old enough to make my own decisions, if you don’t like me, don’t want to be friends with me or judge me based on what I do and what my family does for a living, I’d rather know that right out front,” Braverman said. Braverman started at Doc Johnson during summers in high school and became a full-time employee after graduating with a business degree from University of Miami in 2004. After working in every department in the company, Braverman is now the chief oper-

ating officer, chief creative officer and heir to the country’s largest sex toy manufacturer. He is under pressure to uphold his father’s legacy in an industry valued at $15 billion worldwide. “I always felt this responsibility to the company that provided me with my family’s livelihood,” Braverman said. “I just always felt like if I didn’t take the company over and to the next generation, no one would.” Doc Johnson sells a variety of dildos, vibrators, lubes, strap-ons and male masturbatory aids made almost entirely in house by about 500 employees. What the company is most famous for are sex toys molded from the body parts of real life porn stars including Belladonna and Sasha Grey. These include

dildos molded from penises, hands in various shapes and male masturbatory aids made from vagina and anus molds. These replicas were first released in 1980, and the line has lived on, despite the movement of many sex toy companies toward less anatomically correct toys. To take the company into the next generation, Braverman works to create innovative products while maintaining the growth the company has seen since opening 40 years ago in North Hollywood. To keep up with the BDSM trend and provide luxury fetish toys, Doc Johnson entered into a partnership with Kink.com to create the Kink line of 80 items, which debuted at 2016’s Adult Novelty Manufacturing Expo in July, according to a July 26 press release from Doc Johnson. “[The Kink line] is looking as though it’s going to be one of our most successful product launches in years,” Braverman said. With new and continuing products and developments, Braver-

man said he wants to leave the company in better shape than when he got it. Keeping the main factory in Los Angeles is one of the most important things to almost all the company’s employees, Braverman said. With the high minimum wage and costs to produce products in California, Braverman said it is getting harder to keep manufacturing where it has been for decades, but it is one of the biggest legacies of his father that he wants to uphold. Born into the sex toy industry, Braverman said he is not sure if there was ever a time when he wanted to do anything else, and after working at the company for 12 years, he still does not see himself anywhere else. “I’m not bored here,” Braverman said. “I’m at the core doing what I wanted to do, which is bring this company into a new generation and at least have the ability to have this company possibly be passed down to my children.” zeitel@chroniclemail.com

Gender Breakdown explores issues of misogyny, genderphobia, and racism through real-life, gut-wrenching stories that will change your perception of what happens behind the stage curtain.

House of Hookah

~Now Hiring~

To apply for a position, please visit: chicagohookah.com/employment

• Open 7 Days a Week • B.Y.O.B. • • 607 W. Belmont Chicago, IL 60657 • (773) 348-1550 •

Students pay $5 for preview performances and $15 for the main run.

$10 off

your order!

(sit in Customers Only - Limit 1 Coupon Per group) Expires May 31, 2017

The Sex Issue | The Columbia Chronicle

Ending sexual exploitation Q&A with one teen at a time Milton Coronado IN CONJUNCTION WITH Chicago’s Alliance Against Sexual Exploitation, Milton Coronado leads a prevention education course titled “Empowering Young Men to End Sexual Exploitation.” The course, targeting high school students, educates male youth on “taboo” issues like human trafficking, consent,

THE CHRONICLE: Why is it important for men to understand what sexual exploitation is and their effect on it? MILTON CORONADO: We have a big influence. The majority of individuals who exploit victims are men and the average age of the victims [for] a girl is 12–14 and a boy is 11–13. They don’t care about the victim, they don’t care about the individual, and they don’t care about the woman—they are just in it for the money. How did you get involved with community engagement and eventually CAASE? I studied art and [my father] was killed a year before I graduated, and after I graduated, my passion for art and pursuing a career in art wasn’t as strong as before my father’s passing. So I decided in my heart I wanted to give back to the community and to young people—people who went through what I went through, who are perhaps in the same situation I am. I started helping out much more, getting involved in my faith community as well as in different schools and different youth organizations throughout the city. In doing so, I realized I really had a strong passion for service and mentoring and helping young people. I came across human trafficking, and I realized how big of a problem this is, so I read about

masculinity and sexual harassment. The class is only one of many ways Coronado connects with younger individuals and serves his community. Coronado also runs a community outreach program he developed called “Street Art Ministry,” which encourages young Chicagoans to engage with their communities and channel creativity in a positive way through cleaning up vandalized areas and

creating murals that reflect their area’s ideas and values. Coronado also spent three and a half years working as a youth prevention educator for Youth Outreach Services, where he mentored students to avoid harmful behaviors and engage in their communities. The Chronicle spoke with Coronado about his involvement with CAASE, the effects his class has on students and how men can fight sexual exploitation.

CAASE. A couple months after that, there was an opportunity to work at CAASE.

know they can do various things. They can talk about the issue. A lot of guys think, “Because this is a woman’s issue, it doesn’t affect me, so therefore I don’t need to talk about it.” It’s a social issue and it’s a human issue, so let’s talk about it.

Where do you give the classes? The majority are high schools. We are working on a curriculum for university students. Hopefully we can get in those doors sometime this year. Why is the class directed toward young, instead of older, men? Their minds are still molding from what I teach them. There’s this understanding that the older they already are, they already have their minds set in something. If there is no demand, there will be no supply. And who is the demand? Primarily men. The statistics show that the first time a man purchases sex, they are in the ages of 18–24, but before they reach 18—let’s say they were to purchase somebody when they were 18 years old—we want to tackle this issue in the mind. We want to talk to these individuals and think about it before they are 18. What can men do to prevent sexual exploitation? In the last class, we enter a 20-minute discussion about what [the students] can now do to end human trafficking and sexual exploitation. Some of them have really good responses, and some don’t know what to do. We are able to teach them and let them

What is your favorite part of teaching the class? My favorite experiences are when the kids, after the last lesson, come up and give me a handshake, like a mature, young person and thank me. They’re very sincere and very honest when they thank us, and that’s probably the best experience, the most touching and the most rewarding one, when I can feel and see genuine change and gratitude over the message we provided them. [With] what I’m doing here, teaching and preventing this way and shifting mindsets and providing knowledge, I feel like we’re making a big difference because now that person can tell two others and those two will tell two others, and so on and so on. How has your career in social work rewarded you? You won’t get rich but the reward

is grander, it really is. There’s no price for a life that you saved or mind that you changed or relationship that you built. There’s no money or monetary value to place on an individual saying, “Thank you so much for this. I want to be

different. I want to help others.” I believe we’re all called to serve others, and our heart moves when we do kind gestures. I feel like I’m making a big difference. ccarynski@chroniclemail.com

» Courtesy MILTON CORONADO

CONNOR CARYNSKI CAMPUS REPORTER

The Columbia Chronicle | February 13, 2017

students.colum.edu/ComputerStore Welcome Back to Your Student Technology Center. đ&#x;“ąđ&#x;“ą (312) 369-8622

đ&#x;’Œđ&#x;’Œ COMPUTERSTORE@COLUM.EDU

â?ą OPEN WEEKDAYS 11:00AM â€“ 6:00PM

đ&#x;‘‰đ&#x;‘‰ 33 E. CONGRESS PARKWAYâ€¨

đ&#x;¤‘đ&#x;¤‘ A+ EDUCATIONAL DISCOUNTS Our educational discounts on Mac, iPad and tech accessories give you the best bang for your buck. We also accept payments with the BookCharge through Student Financial Services and have a Trade-in, Trade-up program that makes upgrading your devices more affordable than ever.

đ&#x;˜ąđ&#x;˜ą FREE SUPPORT FOR STUDENTS

Itâ€™s Time to Move On

đ&#x;’”đ&#x;’”

Dump Your Old Device. Your Mac can do anything; it can even get you a new Mac. This Valentineâ€™s Day, find the apple of your eye and upgrade your unloved devices to a new Mac or iPad! Take advantage of our Trade-in, Trade-up program by visiting: cccomputer.tradeitin.net

đ&#x;˜ˇđ&#x;˜ˇ

Lovesick? We offer free virus and malware removal for Mac and PC!

We always offer complimentary and appointment-free troubleshooting for all of your devices, general help and One-on-One sessions, hardware & software diagnostics, virus removal, repairs for Mac computers and more!

đ&#x;¤”đ&#x;¤” ďŁż CERTIFIED GENIUSES In addition to being an Apple Authorized Campus Store, we also have a Certified Mac Technician on staff to offer you the same help with troubleshooting experiences and in-warranty (AppleCare) / out-ofwarranty repairs that you would expect from an Apple Store.

THE BEST SAVINGS & SERVICE FOR STUDENTS @

Must be a current student, staff, or faculty member of Columbia College Chicago to shop at the Computer Store. All offers valid while supplies last. No rain checks or special orders. All sales final. â„˘ and ÂŠ 2016 Apple Inc. Â All rights reserved.

The Sex Issue | The Columbia Chronicle

RACISM in PORN: influence or imitation? JAMES FIRKINS COPY EDITOR USING “MIDDLE EASTERN robes,” and set to a soundtrack of Arabic-style music, Conner Habib was ready to participate in a pornographic video that emphasized his heritage to appeal to those on the internet who would find it sexually arousing. “I knew that part of my identity was being highly eroticized for people who have some type of orientalist idea of what turned them on,” he said. Author, porn performer and vice president of the Adult Performer Advocacy Committee in California, Habib has frequently had his ethnicity labeled and marketed in order to gain more views. Pornography, at the best of times, is difficult or embarrassing to discuss. Despite its cultural prominence, it seems to avoid open discussion about its issues within the media, according to Robert Jensen, professor in the School of Journalism at the University of Texas, at Austin. Porn’s often racist and misogynistic themes, and the most common defense for its extreme content, is that it is not all real. “People often say ‘it’s just fantasy.’” Jensen said. “If I made a Hollywood film that is overtly racist, and I was criticized, would anyone think it’s an adequate defense to say ‘well it’s just fantasy?’” Unlike Jensen however, Habib said he thinks porn is often held to a higher standard than mainstream public media. “Essentially, all you’re asking now is ‘does art imitate culture or

influence it?’” Habib said. “It’s an old question that, for some reason, when it’s applied to pornography, is supposed to be more responsible than any other art form.” The content found in sexually explicit material is indicative of wider societal norms, he said. “[Society has] a huge cultural problem with how identities are handled in capitalist consumption; we have no idea how to merge identities and markets together,” he said. Because of his workers’ rights advocacy and having starred in porn for more than eight years, Habib knows performers in every aspect of the industry, straight and gay, and has witnessed firsthand the inner workings of the industry.

woman. It also is reflected in wage disparity and the actors’ on-set treatment treated, as well as how they are marketed. The phrase “interracial porn” is used to describe content that shows two or more people of differing ethnic backgrounds performing together, but it is frequently used within the industry to describe a scene between a black man and a white woman. These scenes are considered taboo, with many of these white women demanding to be paid more for their time spent on camera performing with a black male co-star. A 2015 Business Insider article, quoting a black male performer who wished to remain anonymous states, “female stars can get $2,000-plus for their first

facial,” compared with 53 percent who would perform in interracial porn. The study also said that “many women hold out on when they do their first ‘interracial’ scenes until the time and money are right, and interracial scenes are given their own category at [porn] award ceremonies.” “The racial politics of the porn industry today mirror those of pop culture in that the majority of the production end of the business is white,” said author, professor and anti-pornography activist Gail Dines in her 2010 book, “Pornland: How Porn Has Hijacked Our Sexuality.” This view of white men at the top is hard to deny considering that one of adult entertainment’s largest film studios, Vivid, is

The racial politics of the porn industry today mirror those of pop culture in that the majority of the production end of the business is white. Gail Dines

“There are problems on porn sets just like any other job,” he said. “It’s not significantly different than any other sector. We absorb problems of labor and identity just like any other industry.” Racism in pornography extends much further than clichéd depictions of ethnicity, such as Habib’s Middle Eastern shoot, an Asian maid or sexually fierce Latina

‘interracial’ scene,’ which is double the rate for a boy-girl scene involving a white partner.” It is considered harmful in the industry for an actress’s career to appear onscreen with men of color, as reflected in a study by data journalist Jon Millward published online in 2013. The survey found 87 percent of female porn actresses were willing to “take a

owned by Steven Hirsch, and generates an estimated $100 million a year in revenue, according to a 2005 Forbes article. Even so, Jenna Jameson, who is white, is the richest porn star in the world with an estimated net worth of $30 million, according to a Celebrity Net Worth article published in 2013—a position held at the top of a list of almost entirely

white actresses, although the two non-white stars in this list are of Asian descent. According to Millward’s study, among a sample of 5,000 porn stars, 70.5 percent are Caucasian, 14 percent are black and 5.2 percent are Asian. The study states that “the proportion of each race match the general American population almost exactly, despite the fact that race is still heavily fetishized in porn.” “We have an overall problem in our culture of racism, and that bleeds into every kind of marketing possible,” Habib said. “People who are in control of larger companies are often white heterosexual men, so we have to deal with that problem off the board.” Jensen, who lectures about the harmful effects of porn, echoed the sentiment, saying porn is squarely in the middle of patriarchy, reflecting the dominant culture. He added that this discussion is not as open as it could be, which needs to be addressed from its root cause. “It’s largely because [America] simply cannot come to terms with how deeply embedded this misogyny and racism is,” Jensen said. The discussion needs to be brought to the forefront of society, which Habib suggests can be achieved by breaking sex taboos. “In a culture that’s so sex-negative, how do you even know what healthy sex can be?” Habib said. “It’s all condemned. If we have a better and more mature sexual discussion in our culture—porn aside—we would have better practices in porn.” jfirkins@chroniclemail.com

14 The Columbia Chronicle | February 13, 2017 Presidency vs. Pregnancy— political climate brings uncertainty for women’s health BLAIR PADDOCK making birth control pills availARTS & CULTURE REPORTER able over the counter. “If everyone knew everything Taking the pill is an automatic, would be fine and [I would be mindless activity for many women. covered], then I wouldn’t be conHowever, a new political adminis- cerned with needing a plan [for tration may reduce access to birth contraceptives] for the next three control, bringing uncertainty to an to 10 years of life because my birth habit that millions of women take control might not be available or for granted. affordable,” Williams said. The repeal of the Affordable Contraceptives such as intraCare Act, which mandated insur- uterine devices, birth control pills ers cover birth control, and the and patches currently require a de-funding of Planned Parent- doctor’s prescription. Over-thehood both threaten the accessibil- counter birth control is long overity of birth control. due because of its practicality, Despite these obstacles, Nicole Williams said. Williams, founder of the “You can get aspirin and Gynecological InstiTylenol, and if you take tute of Chicago said enough Tylenol it will kill she wants women to you, but it’s still available have even greater access over the counter,” Williams said. to contraceptives, such as » FILE GRAPHIC “Our country’s law

and other involvements—special interest groups and the like—have worked to successfully keep effective birth control off the shelf.” Williams said her peers and practitioners are worried about the future of women’s health. So are many other women who are stocking up on birth control as a precautionary measure. Williams noted a 20 percent increase in demand for IUDs since President Trump took office. Louis Silverstein, a professor in the Humanities, History & Social Sciences Department who teaches about sex in society, said control of women’s reproductive rights dates back to the Crusades when men went to war and forced their wives to wear chastity belts. “A long-standing perspective on women [is that] their bodies are vibrating with sensuality,” Silverstein said. “Unless they were controlled in some way, they’d have sex all over the place,” Silverstein said. Silverstein cited Gloria Steinem’s famous quote, “If men could

get pregnant, abortion would be a sacrament,” which he considers applicable to birth control. “If men had to deal with the consequences of pregnancy, there’d be no issue,” Silverstein said. “Birth control would be all over the place—available at a very low cost or free.” Contraceptive options for men, such as increased doses of testosterone, have been tested but studies have been halted because of side effects such as insomnia and depression, said Nelson Bennett, associate professor of urology at the Feinberg School of Medicine at Northwestern University. This means that men will continue to have fewer birth control options than women, Bennett added. “Ideally, a man and a woman should feel equally invested in preventing unplanned pregnancy,” Bennett said. “Unfortunately that’s not how it works. Women are much more motivated to use contraception because [the] con-

sequences of pregnancy are much higher for them.” By contrast, male birth control has an uncertain future because there is no market for it, Williams said. Like most other mammals, she said, males have a physiological need to spread their DNA to as many partners as possible, in line with the Darwinian theories for survival and evolution. “Why would a man voluntarily choose to limit his fertile potential as [opposed] to women?” Williams said. Equality in birth control will require a change in both viewpoints and laws, Silverstein said. Men are resistant to change, but progress cannot be made until people become more enlightened and openminded. “We all know that we’re in a particularly male, chauvinistic, anti-women-domination cultural perspective in relation to who’s in control at the national level and also at state,” Silverstein said. bpaddock@chroniclemail.com

Want to get involved? Sign up for our annual Race for CAASE on 7/23! Email ebryan@caase.org for more info.

We believe in a community free from sexual exploitation. CAASE addresses the culture, institutions, and individuals that perpetrate, profit from, or support sexual exploitation. Our work includes prevention, policy reform, community engagement, and free legal services to anyone who is a survivor of sexual assault (or exploited in prostitution).

To learn more, visit www.caase.org. 307 N. Michigan | Suite 1818 | Chicago, IL 60601 | T: 773-244-2230

The Sex Issue | The Columbia Chronicle

Getting it on, wherever you are » ZOË HAWORTH/CHRONICLE

ARIEL PARRELLA-AURELI ARTS & CULTURE EDITOR HOOKING UP IS tricky business. Whether you are living in the city, the suburbs or a small rural town, sometimes navigating the trials and tribulations of sexual encounters is not simple. A lot of it depends on your surroundings and the kind of culture in which you are immersed. Being in a city versus living in a suburb or a rural town will have different affects on your hook ups. The Chronicle compiled some advice and tips from students with experience hooking up in each of these areas to better assist those looking for flings or hookups all over the map. THE CITY: Because of the city’s large population, there is a plethora of potential partners, including some

you never have to see again after hooking up, according to Paige Hanson, a sophomore business & entrepreneurship major who has experience hooking up in Chicago’s urban cityscape. Unlike many others, Hanson said she has never used dating apps to find sexual partners but has met people through Twitter and mutual friends. She said when having one-night stands in the city the next day can be awkward—if you stick around for too long. “Leave before the person wakes up,” Hanson said, recounting her hookup experience with a guy from London who was visiting Chicago for one night only. “There is no good way to say goodbye after hooking up. You can’t shake their hand, and kissing them is too close.” Not texting the other person first the day after is another bit of

advice from Hanson because no one wants to look desperate. “You got to keep that mysterious illusion going,” she said. Hanson gave the obvious advice: use protection. She added that carrying condoms is important to always be prepared. THE SUBURBS: Living and hooking up in the suburbs may be tricky because the population is slim, but Jacob Buckley, 21, from Riverside, Illinois, said you can still be smooth if you don’t come on too strong. Because there are fewer options, Buckley said you don’t want to get straight to the point and ask to hook up. “A better option would be to ask them if they want to go out or go see a movie or get dinner before you make initial moves,” he said. “Play your cards right and just let everything fall into place.”

We’ve got you covered

ColumbiaChronicle.com

Ã įōíľįÕæíŊĕ 1. 40 million people in the US have tried online dating. 2. 40 million people in the US also frequent porn sites. 3. Elmhurst, IL is the number 1 city in the US to search for “porn”, “sex” and “xxx”. 4. There are currently 4.2 million pornographic websites on the Internet (12% of websites TOTAL).

SMALL TOWNS: Hooking up in small towns is usually not as appealing or illustrious as is it in big cites, according to Sofia*, a sophomore Columbia student from a small neighborhood in Illinois. Although now she lives on campus, she recalls having flings in small towns. It’s hard because everyone knows each other, making it difficult to keep secrets. She said there was no privacy and gossip spread fast—living in a religious and conservative town also did not help. “It was harder to be okay with [hooking up] because I still lived with my parents, so I felt a little more guilty about it,” Sofia said. Her advice for hooking up in small towns is to keep it on the down low if possible, so people do not spread gossip or judgment. Logan Katsoufis, a junior audio arts & acoustics major originally

from small town Redding, Massachusetts, echoed the pitfalls of hooking up in a small town. He said everyone knows each other and is involved in other people’s business; however, he said it can get more personal that way, if people appreciate that. “Don’t change anything about your personality afterward,” Katsoufis said. “Which in hindsight [means] don’t be a dick.” But Katsoufis said judgment or intertwined friendships should not deter from hooking up and having a good time. “I would go ahead and do it— you are not going to live there for the rest of your life, so what is one embarrassing tale?” he said. “It makes for a good story when you are older.” *Name has been changed for privacy.

aparrella@chroniclemail.com

The Columbia Chronicle | February 13, 2017

The future of labels:

A glimpse into the use of sexual identities today BROOKE PAWLING STENNETT & CAROLYN BRADLEY OPINIONS EDITOR & COPY CHIEF FEATURE

egan Harvey was in college in the U.K. when she texted her father with the words, “I have something really important I need to say.” She was about to come out as bisexual. Her dad gave a vague reply, but Harvey was nervous—so much so that she calculated the distance between her and the family friend she could move in with if things went awry. Thankfully it all turned out okay, Harvey said. “For me and most bisexual people, you feel like you need to confirm your identity or you think that sometimes you’re wrongfully labeling yourself,” Harvey said. Harvey is not the only millennial who has struggled with sexual identity. Labeling yourself can be a monumental moment. However, some people do not feel that they fit any kind of label and prefer to not identify with any sexuality or gender identity.

DESIGN BY ZOË HAWORTH

YouGov, an international internet-based market research firm in the U.K., conducted a survey about how British adults placed themselves on the sexuality spectrum, “zero” being heterosexual and “six” being homosexual. Of the 18–24 demographic, 43 percent ranked themselves between one and five, while 81 percent of 40–59 year olds identified as either completely heterosexual or homosexual. Within the younger generation, the results show that labels for sexual orientation and gender identity have become increasingly complex. However, that same complexity has sparked a widespread debate about whether society should get rid of labels for sexual orientation and identity even though they have been around for decades. Since the American Psychiatric Association removed homosexuality from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders in 1973, the acronym for LGBT has become its own umbrella term. Many different labels like aromantic, gender nonconforming and more, fall under the ever-expanding LGBTQIA+ acronym.

However, if people choose not to label themselves, society may impose a label on them anyway, said Rebecca Vipond Brink, a journalist and LGBT advocate. In a Jan. 13, 2015, article “Why Labels For Sexual Identities are Useful for Everyone,” Brink wrote that labels are tools to evaluate personal experiences and can create healthy, personal dialogue. People in queer and transgender communities have been told for decades that however they identify is a phase, Brink told The Chronicle. Or they are told that their experiences and the way they perceive themselves are not valid. And just like Harvey, some are afraid to attach themselves to a label for fear of it always being both a personal and public identifier. “[Not labeling yourself] is an effort to provide yourself flexibility, but that flexibility exists whether or not you put a label on yourself,” Brink said. “You can always change the way you talk about yourself.” Korey McWilliams, adjunct faculty member in the Humanities, History & Social Sciences Department, said sexual identity labels evolve over time and even change multiple times throughout a person’s life. “I’d say chuck them out if we could, but people are treated differentially because of the categories they fall into,” McWilliams said. “Sexual identity will always go on. It’s in our culture.” Liz Johnson, a sophomore cinema art + science major, said they don’t have a preference for a singular label. For most settings, Johnson identifies as queer but uses the label bisexual when interacting with people less aware of the complexity.

The Sex Issue | The Columbia Chronicle

Johnson said the word queer is basically a “non-label, label” because of its broadness, and most people can assume a person is anything but heterosexual when using that term. “Everyone that has a label knows there are multiple parts to them,” Johnson said. “When I talk about not identifying with a label, it’s because I fear forgetting the rest of the parts [of me].” While opinions vary on label usage, today’s LGBT community demonstrates a greater number of sexual identities compared to past decades. Stephen T. Russell, a professor and chair of the Department of Human Development and Family Sciences at the University of Texas at Austin, recently conducted a survey about the identity of 190 people from three different age groups as well as different cultures and regions across the U.S. Russell said he found that the older survey participants identify closely with the “gay,” “lesbian” or “bisexual” labels, while the younger participants seemed more inclusive with labels such as “pan,” “poly” or “queer.” Russell also co-conducted an August 2009 survey of 2,560 California secondary school students in a three year time span titled “Are teens ‘postgay?’ Contemporary adolescents’ sexual identity labels.” In this study, Russell and his colleagues found that 71 percent of non-heterosexual adolescents use the sexual orientation labels that became more defined in recent years. In addition, 13 percent of adolescents identified as “questioning,” 5 percent as “queer,” and 9 percent pointed to sexual identity fluidity. “The makeup of the collection of identities is shifting,” Russell said. “Maybe it is shifting in

younger people [because they] have access to a more varied repertoire of identities.” McWilliams said he has seen an increase in the many sexual identity labels used by younger people in recent years. Five years ago, a person would never have identified as queer. The label—which has been used as a slur—has now been positively reclaimed by millennials. “Although the labels have always been there, they aren’t as nuanced as before,” McWilliams said. He added that his students have been the ones to inform him about new sexual and gender identity labels. “Ultimately [gender and sexual identity labels] are not useful because there is such an infinite number of identities,” McWilliams said. “The individual differences between us are so great that just putting on a label doesn’t necessarily tell us everything we need to know.” However, McWilliams said that labels can be empowering for adolescents and young adults because they can be confused as they try to find a place in society. Though labels are a double-edged sword, constricting and empowering one’s own identity, McWilliams said there is more visibility now for the many labels on the LGBT spectrum because of young people. The non-use of labels is a legitimate form of sexual liberation and self-expression, according to Liam Hoare, journalist and writer who wrote the March 23, 2016, Slate article “The Problem With Avoiding Labels.” However, there is a concern that the widespread rejection of labels by queer people will bring about a loss of solidarity, Hoare told The Chronicle.

“The non-use of labels is to remove oneself from that activist community,” Hoare said. “You are relying on other people who use labels to do the work for you.” Hoare added that the research proves younger people are more likely to not label themselves which may have something to do with political naiveté. For the last eight years, the LGBT community has made gradual progress in a number of areas such as legalization of marriage equality in all 50 states on June 26, 2015, and the Nov. 7, 2013, passage of the Employment Non-Discrimination Act that bans employers from firing, refusing to hire or discriminating against workers or job applicants based on their sexual orientation or gender identity. But Hoare fears that progress could come to an end during the Trump administration. “Especially at this time, we require labels in the LGBT community to almost protect ourselves in this increasingly upsetting climate,” Hoare said. As the political debate still rages on amid an uncertain future, it may be important to reflect back on the history of the community to further encourage members to try and make a difference in what can be seen as a discouraging, noninclusive moment in time. Johnson is conscious of the struggles the LGBT community faced during the gay rights demonstrations. These are what have allowed people to have the ability to say less about their labels today. “We all have prejudices that we need to unlearn and practice getting rid of,” Johnson said. “The way to do that is to eliminate our own labels or at least question why they are there.” chronicle@colum.edu

The Columbia Chronicle | February 13, 2017

The Sex Issue | The Columbia Chronicle

senior audio a r ts & a lives in coustic : West s major Tow n he’s loo womanking for : A t a good who is sma ra lk ative, mu sic time t, f u nn y and li -lov ing he i s : A kes to “ h av e out and hopeless r o mantic h av e f u ” n w h last rela o likes to go thing s tionship: Tw erious o y ea rs, lo aga in ok ing f or som e-

junior theatr e major lives in: Sou th Loop he’s looking fo sense of hum r : A da rk-haired, “cute” or and conver gu sation sk il ls y w ith a he is : “I’m st ra someone, I w ight up —I don’t play my boyfriend.il l go for it. A nd I wou ldgames. If I like be there for fun fact : Can ” drive a boat

junior theatre major lives in : Uptow n e one of any gender to tak they’re looking for : Some hing from cultural awarenaps with who has everytmore dea lbreakers than ness to a pulse. “I’ve got ly why I’m single.” dea lmakers. That’s probab introvert ” who wil l make they are : An “outgoing r dog you pet and mac & cheese n e ordered a salad and the worst date experience : “H croutons with his fingers.” proceeded to pick out the

double major & journa lism junior theatre h Loop lives in : Sout who loves to et ty-eyed guy king pr A : r fo g in rd-wor she’s look ve but also ha smile, is sensiti her pa rtner ak ok ing to m e and shows lo s ay lw A : is er she go out to dinn a happy, loves to most got into to al e “H t rience : worst date expeba rtender. They were abou fight w ith the s, and I just walked out.” throw punche

on major senior televisi in ley Pa rk y who lives in : McK ta ll, funny gu r : A not-toofo g in ok lo e’s sh wants knows what he your liber ty . “I’ll give you ve si es ss po ot she is : N ound.” and still be ar ably anything eat a lot, prefer fun fact : Can w ith bacon

sophomore cinema art and science lives in: Litt le Village he’s looking for : A funny girl who likes adventure and art shows he is : A street artist who loves explorin g the city and wants someone to join him worst date experience: “I bought her flowers and ever ything. She was generally rude...ver y closed off when I tried to talk and make jokes. I had to cut it shor t, and the flowers were left in my car. So I gave them to my mom.” » JAMES TSITIRIDIS/CHRONICLE

The Columbia Chronicle | February 13, 2017

Sex Through the Decades CAROLYN BRADLEY COPY CHIEF

Mondays find us celebrating Show Tunes. Tuesdays we love Divas.

WEDNESDAYS are for people who love

masculine is not a dirty word

here’s new information available every day so we can educate ourselves on virtually any subject. And that has led to more open discussions on a particularly hot topic: sex. People are slowly feeling more comfortable addressing sex and related discussions. This wasn’t always the case. Until the mid-to-late 20th century, conversations on sex did not exist—or if they did, they were done in whispers. Noel Paul Hertz, owner of Noel Paul Hertz Psychotherapy, an individual practice, taught a “Human Sexuality” course at Columbia in the ‘90s. Hertz said he thinks the change in conversation about sex often parallels the story of U.S. presidents. Currently, President Donald Trump’s comments on his treatment of women, for instance, have driven women to wear hats shaped like women’s genitals, Hertz said.

‘50s

Hertz also said Dwight D. Eisenhower, who was president from 1953–1961, had an affair with his Jeep driver during his service as supreme allied commander during World War II. During this time, Hertz said, citizens shunned sex discussions altogether, and as a result, no one asked questions about the then-president’s affair.

‘60s

In addition, Hertz said President John F. Kennedy was said to have sexual liaisons with women during his time in the White House from 1961–1963, which remained covert under the Secret Service’s security in a time where men were allowed more sexual freedom.

...the video bar 3349 n halsted SidetrackChicago.com must be 21 with ID

‘70s & ‘80s

/SidetrackBar

Hertz explained that the ‘70s altered looking at sexual assault as a crime of property as feminists framed it as a crime of violence against the victim. Universities have been working more diligently at stopping sexual abuse on campus in the last 25 years,

he added, though there is still a problem with sweeping the dilemma under the rug. “As you hear more about it, then more people will hear that it’s actually something you can do something about, and they’ll push more people to do something about it,” Hertz said. Sexual harassment in the workplace is also a difficult issue. The topic has spurred movies about the issue as a way of talking about the problem. Michelle Rafacz, an assistant professor in the Science & Mathematics Department, teaches “Evolution of Sex: Honors” in which she and her students go beyond the “taboos” of sex dialogue through the exploration of other species. “We look to the animal kingdom for explanations of certain behaviors that we consider taboo [and] why they exist,” Rafacz said. “There’s always an evolutionary reason for it, so why not look to [animals] for evidence?” Rafacz said curiosity about various sexual behaviors has opened up the conversation on sex in recent years.

‘90s

During the Clinton administration, the taboo of public sex conversation began to change significantly. Former President Bill Clinton, who was infamous for his affair with Monica Lewinski, initially denied having sexual relations with the intern, Hertz said. But because news stations nationwide broadcast Clinton’s scandal, Hertz said sex conversation began to increase. The scandal forced people to face the topic. “In the ‘90s, there was this big push to get the genetics of homosexuality; looking to biology to see if there’s a scientific basis for homosexuality or other behaviors,” Rafacz said. Science has served as a tool to prove certain sexual behaviors as either normal or abnormal, she said. Hertz said once he moved away from his initial practice of family therapy and gravitated toward sex therapy in this decade, he found clients becoming more comfortable with talking about sex and addressing sexual issues. “As we move on, we are finding more and more people who would like to get help,” Hertz said. “If you don’t know there’s a problem, it’s very difficult to ask for help.” cbradley@chroniclemail.com

The Sex Issue | The Columbia Chronicle

Classroom hookups:

and when she asked what she could improve on, the TA told her just to try harder. A few weeks went later, Stephanie was still upset over her grade. She was at a local bar—and drunk—when she saw him and decided to go discuss her grade. “I told him that I couldn’t believe that he gave me a bad grade,” Stephanie said. “I was literally yelling at him [in the bar]…. We talked and I couldn’t tell if he was flirting with me or not.” As the night progressed, Stephanie’s TA asked her to go home with him after a game of pool, which she happily accepted the offer. “After we hooked up, we were lying in bed, and I asked him about my paper,” Stephanie said. “He got up out of bed, went to his desk and pulled out my grading sheet. He was telling me why he gave me this grade after we hooked up.” The next class, she was completely embarrassed about what

surviving the awkward » PHOTO ILLUSTRATION ALEXANDER AGHAYERE/CHRONICLE

KENDRAH VILLIESSE Teacher’s pet: ARTS & CULTURE REPORTER It is always nice to be a teachers pet but Stephanie, 20, a student at THE PROSPECTS OF hooking up a local university will never look with someone from class can be at a teaching assistant the same exhilarating or completely embar- way again. rassing. Either way, it happens. Stephanie said she had a very Here are some stories from stu- attractive TA in one of her classes dents about the good, the bad and at her college. The TA gave her a the ugly of classmate hookups. low grade on one of her speeches,

she had done. After a while they started talking again, for Stephanie’s final speech, the TA gave her an A. After the semester ended, they hooked up a few more times, but now he is just a memory. It never happened: Nicole, 19, was at a party when she saw someone from her class. “I was pretty wasted and started hooking up with him in front of everyone,” Nicole said. “He walked me home, expecting to hook up some more, and I was like, ‘No thanks.’” The next time Nicole saw him was in class. She was so embarrassed that she pretended that it never happened, and he went along with it. I feel faint: Sometimes at parties or other gatherings, students find themselves in the awkward situation of being cornered by a person who won’t stop talking to you. There are a couple of ways to break free of the situation: they can leave the party, tell the person to leave them

alone, make up an excuse to get away, or what Ashley did and pretend to pass out. During her freshman year, Ashley, 20, was at a party when she spotted a classmate. As the night progressed, he wouldn’t stop talking to her and was trying to hook up with her, but she was not into it. Ashley thought about the ways she could avoid this situation and settled on one. “I pretended to be incoherent the whole time and to pass out and lay on the stairs,” Ashley said. “He tried shaking me and moving me to try and get me up, and I wouldn’t move. I texted my roommate and told her to come get me, so she and my other friend came in the back and tried to carry me away and I didn’t move my legs, so they were literally dragging me.” In their next class, Ashley just ignored him. She added that she would use that method again because it worked so well. * The Chronicle chose to omit last names and colleges for privacy

kvilliesse@chroniclemail.com

GROUNDBREAKING & AHEAD OF ITS TIME. GRADE: A E N T E R TA INME N T W E E K LY

The Columbia Chronicle | February 13, 2017

Diversity is the new sexy on TV MARISA SOBOTKA CAMPUS REPORTER STREAMING SERVICES, CABLE networks and various broadcast television stations have changed TV sex scenes to include more diverse characters and storylines that reflect contemporary social norms. The diversity observed in sex scenes is “strangely” becoming more common on television than in film, said Ron Falzone, associate professor in the Cinema Art + Science Department. “Twenty years ago, television was where you went to turn your mind off and watch something silly, and films were where you went for adult content; it is the opposite today,” Falzone said. The transition to more adult content on television has caused networks and streaming services to open the door to a new world of characters and situations for storytellers to portray—sexual relationships between different

races, sexualities, body types and genders—but more improvements can be made, Falzone said. “There is greater diversity, but it [does not extend] to bi-racial couples quite as much, but it is certainty coming in and we are seeing more of it,” Falzone noted. Diversity in sex scenes is greater in media that is free of federal regulations, such as cable and streaming services. In addition, broadcast television, online streaming services like Netflix and Hulu, as well as cable networks like HBO and Showtime, all have different standards and practices for what content they can show, which affect sexual diversity, according to Bradley Bond, an assistant communication studies professor at the University of San Diego who examines the effect media has on sexual identities. Falzone said the rise of cable networks not subject to FCC broadcast restrictions has led to more risk-taking in this industry.

“Cable opened a wedge socially speaking for [what] it can show, and as cable does it, it starts to filter down to broadcast television,” Falzone said. The sex scenes in cable shows such as “Girls,” “Shameless” and “Game of Thrones” are unlike anything seen previously. Freshman cinema art + science major Keeley Parenteau said “Girls” in particular has done a great job of portraying diversity in body types.

“In TV shows like “Girls,” we are starting to see more diversity in [characters] with curvier bodies, birthmarks and different races.” she said. Bond said Shonda Rhimes, creator of hit shows like “Scandal” and “Grey’s Anatomy,” is a contributor to diverse sex scenes on broadcast television. “As writer and creator, [she] takes things to the next level,” Bond said. “Scandal” for example has interracial sex scenes; “How to Get Away With Murder” has interracial sex scenes between

» PHOTO ILLUSTRATION ZOË HAWORTH/CHRONICLE

people of the same sex; and “Grey’s Anatomy” has done good work in depicting bisexual individuals.” According to Falzone, these television shows have helped to normalize sexual diversity by showing sex scenes that are natural rather than idealized. Their depiction of a characters sex life focuses on more than just sexual preference, race or body type. “This shows that the audience is ready and willing to go farther,” Falzone said. But in light of the recent rise of racist and homophobic rhetoric, “the real question is will this new normal get put back in the closet,” he stated. While the representation of more diverse characters and cultures is more becoming frequent, there is room for more improvement in the accuracy and quality of the portrayals, according to Bond. “There is more diversity in the way sex is portrayed on TV, but frequency doesn’t equate to quality depictions,” Bond said. msobotka@chroniclemail.com

The Sex Issue | The Columbia Chronicle

What to do if your partner doesn’t orgasm Don’t take it personally

CHRONICLE STAFF

The same study says the greatest concern about the failure of heterosexual women to climax is its bruising effect on their partner’s egos. This is not a time to have your feelings hurt. Before you start thinking you’re no longer attractive or desirable, remind yourself of outside factors beyond your control. There are plenty of

has been controversial for decades. The imbalance between male and female orgasm can often cause resentment and insecurity—particularly when one partner is indifferent to the other’s needs or takes it too personally. No matter how great the sex is, some people will not achieve that toe-curling feeling, and the failure to climax is completely normal. But if it’s an issue in your relationship, these tips will help. THE BIG “O”

Care Recent studies, including a December 2013 study from the Journal of Sex Research that surveyed college-aged men, show that men actually find it arousing when their partners climax and are concerned when they do

not. This was likely not the case decades prior when societal norms repressed female sexuality. Caring about your partner’s pleasure is a good thing, and if outside factors are not causing the problem, it gives you greater opportunity to discover what positions work to achieve optimal results.

reasons why both male and female partners don’t reach orgasm that have nothing to do with whom you are having sex. According to Boston University School of Medicine’s website, the inability to orgasm could be caused by factors ranging from medications to emotional issues that prevent relaxation. The same is true for men, whose delayed ejaculation may also be related to their masturbation style and alcohol consumption. Lamenting to your partner could put greater pressure on them to perform, which can also inhibit orgasm. Faking them is also not ideal because it is dishonest and avoids confronting your sexual needs.

Try something different

» JAMES TSITIRIDIS/CHRONICLE

According to a March 2009 Psychology Today article that compiled decades of sexual stud-

DELILAH’S PLYMOUTH 2771 N. Lincoln * (773) 472-2771

PUNK ROCK MONDAYS

PUB

. RESTAURANT . ROOFTOP

chronicle@colum.edu

LOCATED AT 327 S. PLYMOUTH CT

�� ! $2.50 �� $3.00 ��

$4.00 ��

��

$1 American Beer

$5.00 �� $6.00 �� $6.00 ��

$2 Jim Beam

�� .��

Free Pool !!!

Check Out More Events

Delilahschicago.com

BAR AND GRILL

ies, a quarter of all women will never achieve consistent orgasms through vaginal penetration. If that’s the case, try other options. Some women, and men as well, experience more pleasure from other types of penetration such as oral or anal. Do not be afraid to find out what works best for your partner. If you need to try a variety of sexual acts, that should be your go-to approach.

Book your romantic Valentine’s Day dinner on 2/13/16 on our Rooftop Bar!

Open: Mon - Sat: 11am - Midnight

Enclosed Rooftop Bar Open Year Round!

The Columbia Chronicle | February 13, 2017

Listen up, girls:

‘Normal’ vaginas don’t exist MEGAN BENNETT EDITOR-IN-CHIEF COMMENTARY

hough the idea of adult women wishing to surgically alter their genitals to look more attractive is distressing on its own, recent data shows adolescents are increasingly requesting and receiving these potentially dangerous surgeries due to society’s unnecessary beauty standards. According to 2016 data from the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery’s and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, more females under the age of 18 are expressing interest in plastic surgery to modify their breasts and vaginal tis-

sue, with at least 400 completing labiaplasties in 2015—an approximate 80 percent increase from 2014’s 220. The most common surgery requests among females under 18 listed include breast augmentation, breast reduction and—less commonly discussed—labiaplasty. Labiaplasty, the alteration of the labia appearance often in hopes to appear tighter or have less visible skin, can be performed in the cases of sexual trauma or distress to repair this area, but also for cosmetic purposes to fix what girls or women have been made to think is different or abnormal. “Adolescents often desire to improve physical conditions that, if left uncorrected, may affect them into adulthood or that they

perceive as flawed,” the ACOG wrote in a May 2016 response that was later updated in January, warning doctors to find alternative methods of helping body-conscious girls. “This age group may be under particular stress regarding these issues because of societal conceptions of the ideal female body and parental concerns for body perfection.” Trends such as shaving or waxing pubic hair, additional awareness of genital cosmetic surgery and more “exposure to ideal images of genital anatomy” are cited as reasons why more teens want to alter their labia. The “ideal images” may include pornography, which has now become more easily accessible, according to a May 12, 2016,

TIME article. Additionally, in a 2014 University of Lincoln School of Psychology study that surveyed 850 people between ages 12 and 20, 33 percent of girls between 12 and 16 had viewed porn as well as 80 percent of girls ages 16 to 20. It’s unfortunate that girls are striving for “normal” or more attractive vaginas when, in fact, normalcy in this area does not exist. As women enter puberty and adulthood, their labia develop and come in all different shapes and sizes, not necessarily similar to what is seen in porn. If young girls whose labia have not finished growing and who already have limited foresight in evaluating major life decisions, don’t have the ability to realize this, they will permanently alter their body, and it will be too late for anyone to teach them about body acceptance and positivity. Regret isn’t always the sole effect of genital cosmetic surgery. According to the ACOG document, labiaplasty can cause bruising, scarring and pain during sex.

This is in addition to all of the typical risks from going under the knife, which include risks from anesthesia and other injuries. The possibility of teens being plagued by unnecessary sexual restrictions due to injury at such a young age cheats them out of a comfortable, pain-free sex life for the rest of their lives. As someone who, as a teen, also thought I didn’t look normal because of easily accessible photos and videos I saw of the female body and once thought would one day need surgery like this—even though I’ve had no reason to do so—I understand the worry at that age of having “unusual” body parts. It is something girls can and should discuss with a physician or counselor. However, no woman, let alone child, should feel like she has to undergo such an invasive surgery because of societal pressures that undermine the beautiful variety of the female physique. mbennett@chroniclemail.com

Mowing the lawn?

STD study might want you to reconsider

ARIEL PARRELLA-AURELI ARTS & CULTURE EDITOR COMMENTARY

“

f you stop shaving up there, I’ll stop shaving down there,” Mila Kunis tells Justin Timberlake with a sly look as the two hook up in “Friends with Benefits.” My teenaged, hopeless romantic mind loved the 2011 film because of the clichè storyline, romantic hookup moments and good soundtrack, even if the sex scenes were far from realistic. Kunis’ quote made me uncomfortable in my own skin—almost in a shaming way— because unlike most millennials, I don’t shave down there. As with most media, including the modern porn industry, the movie represented women’s pubic hair as taboo and unat-

tractive. Everyone is entitled to their own grooming choices, but judging others and feeling pressure from the media and even friends is detrimental to self-esteem and contributes to unhealthy assumptions of unnatural body images. This taboo is normal in Western society’s mainstream culture, in which people view women being hairless practically everywhere as beautiful, normal and sexually appealing. But outliers to that formula can be subject to judgment that stems from the social stigma surrounding pubic hair. Pubic hair removal started supposedly as far back as ancient Egypt and Greece. High art began to publicly spotlight the issue when 15th century painters such as Bosch, Titian and Michelangelo did not show any pubic hair in

their naked model paintings. But when Spanish painter Goya painted La Maja Desnuda around 1800 for the Spanish prime minister, it was a revelation: She had hair down there. Every kind of hair on our bodies has a purpose, and removing it is far from necessary. A recent University of California study published Dec. 6, 2016, about the correlation between shaving pubic hair and STDs should be enough to make non-shavers feel less awkward and embrace pubic hair. The study, headed by Dr. Benjamin Brayer, associate professor of Urology and Epidemiology & Biostatistics at UCSF, found that frequent removal of pubic hair is associated with an increased risk for herpes, syphilis and human papillomavirus and molluscum, which is common among adults.

The study surveyed about 7,500 men and women ages 18–65 and looked at their grooming habits, sex lives and STD history. “We were surprised at how big the effect was,” Brayer told NPR. To me, it makes sense that exposed and sensitive skin without its natural layer of protection would be prone to more diseases. It also reminds me of when I was a child, and as an adult, that is the opposite of pleasurable. A Dec. 6 NPR article about the study indicated that 80 percent of women and two thirds of men had “done some manscaping” or “tended to their lady garden” at least once before. Only slightly more than 10 percent were extreme groomers—the ones who groomed more than 11 times a year and like things bald, which look like hairless cats to me.

An op-ed published Dec. 28, 2016 on Your Tango, a leading online magazine focused on love and relationships, by sex blogger and hedonism advocate Sarah Jane McKenna also put me at ease. Titled “Five Reasons Why I Choose To Embrace the Bush Instead of Going Bald,” McKenna gives a couple of reasons not to shave, which include no chafing, less friction, no razor burns and more money in the bank. This girl inspires me to lose the shame surrounding pubic hair. Women and men should reconsider their personal grooming habits given the role social pressure has on grooming choices. It is time to stop judging one another and throw the taboo—created by the media—down the drain. aparrella@chroniclemail.com

The Sex Issue | The Columbia Chronicle

I’m not afraid of sex ZOË EITEL MANAGING EDITOR COMMENTARY

spent years trying to figure out what my sexuality was. I never dated in high school, and I’ve kissed more of my friends than people in whom I was actually interested. I’ve had friends who are straight, gay, lesbian, bisexual, pansexual and polyamorous but never related to any of those terms. The closest I came to accepting a label was bisexual, but that still didn’t feel right. I’d be walking down the street and see an attractive guy and think, “Wow, he’s hot,” and turn the corner and see an attractive girl and think, “Damn, she’s cute,” but that was it—that was the extent of my interest. It wasn’t until near the end of my freshman year of college that

I found a term that fit me: asexual—having no sexual feelings or desires—but even that is a somewhat loose fit. If I’m trying to be as specific as possible, I would say I’m asexual, panromantic, and I feel aesthetic and sensual attraction toward all genders. But that’s a ridicuous mouthful, and no one actually knows what any of that means, so I’m just “asexual.” It’s not something I tell a lot of people, but it’s also not something I’m shy about. I haven’t told any of my family because I don’t see a reason why they need to know, but now I’m telling whomever is picking up one of the thousands of copies of The Chronicle this week. Despite not wanting sex, I’m not shy about talking about it. I can make dirty jokes with the best of them. Sex is everywhere in our

society—TV, movies, advertisements, books, social media. It’s almost unavoidable, so why try? Though asexuality may typically be considered an aversion to anything sexual, that is not how I

the new movie. It doesn’t mean you can’t watch heavily sexual shows—“Shameless” and “Queer as Folk” are two of my favorites, and the characters are always banging. It doesn’t mean you can’t throw a sex toy-themed birthday party, interview sexperts or research sex toys for class. It doesn’t even mean you can’t watch

I don’t want anyone to treat me differently just because I don’t want sex. see it. For me, it is not a fear of the idea of sex or even the depiction; it is the lack of desire to participate. It is not a limiting or burdensome label that I resent. Being asexual doesn’t mean you can’t read “Fifty Shades of Grey” and be really excited for

porn of any and all kinds. And it definitely doesn’t mean you can’t have a relationship sans sex. I have friends who won’t talk to me about their sex lives or relationships because they fear it will make me uncomfortable, which is not at all what I want. I don’t want

anyone to treat me differently just because I don’t want sex. I also have friends who will make jokes like, “Good thing you’re not trying to get laid,” because I brought Mike’s Hard Lemonade to a party—which actually made me laugh—and I like the comfort of that. I loved the time I told someone that I was asexual, and they just said, “That makes so much sense!” Sexuality can be defined in an infinite number of ways by people who identify with their own labels, and asexuality to me does not mean an allergy to or hatred of sex. It just means having a bit more free time. There’s nothing wrong with me. There are no chemical imbalances, loose wires or demons in my head confusing me. I’m not embarrassed, sad or lacking in anything because of my sexuality. I’m not fragile, depressed or messed up; I’m just asexual, and I’m still happy. zeitel@chroniclemail.com

Let’s talk about VIRGINITY BROOKE PAWLING STENNETT

OPINIONS EDITOR

COMMENTARY

itting on a couch in my upstairs living room with a boy at age 15, I was sure I was about to “lose my virginity.” I couldn’t look him in the eye; I was still wearing most of my clothes, but I remember feeling cold and surprisingly alone. Years later, the heavy, sinking feeling of guilt is what I remember most clearly. The guilt didn’t stem from self-consciousness or fear of my parents walking in, although, I was hyper aware they were sleeping downstairs. It stemmed from what virginity meant for a woman in this society and in a religious context. Spending most of my formative years with grandparents who were devoted Christians, I always questioned religion, until I figured out

how to work the internet. After that, I was always loud about it. Asking questions out loud was my way of trying to understand a concept that seemed to be more about division rather than inclusion. My virginity, theology said, was precious but not really mine. It was my future husband’s whom I had not yet met. In my rebellious phase, I hated the idea of marrying anyone, let alone a man I didn’t know. I refused to be fragile in a world because I was supposed to be. Historically, society has viewed virginity in females as something vulnerable for men to “take.” This ingrained mindset is prevalent from early ages. Even if you’re not the most popular in high school, you hear the stories of Senior boys who call the first week of school “shark week”—a joke referring to all the freshman girls, presumably virgins, they’ll be on the hunt for.

There is no strength in a woman “giving herself away” to a man other than her husband. Not only are women dirty, society said, but they should also be weak. Author Hanne Blank revisited the chilling history of premarital sex in her novel, “Virgin: The Untouched History,” in which she cited that in ancient Greece, an Athenian father, after discovering his unmarried daughter slept with a man, fed her to starving horses. It was also part of sexual submissiveness, which was so important in ancient times that when St. Agatha of Sicily refused to sleep with a Roman governor, her breasts were torn off with pincers in retaliation. Even the state of Virginia was named to commemorate Queen Elizabeth I’s long-lasting virginity. For centuries, women have been plagued with the duty to protect their virginity, even though there is no real, comprehensible way to

define how society or individuals view the construct of virginity. Though the original definition was vaginal penetration, that would now be too heteronormative. For the sake of the young women who are experiencing the societal pressure to either have sex or wait for marriage, let the definition stay ambiguous. Sex is not a Bustle article detailing what it’s like to lose your virginity after everyone else already has. It’s not a Cosmopolitan magazine supplement entitled “The Virgin Diaries” glorifying men for waiting until their partner is “ready.” Why is it the female partner “holding out?” What if its the male in the heterosexual relationship who isn’t “ready?” Females tend to be viewed as the timid one regarding sex even when it’s not the case. Consider this: Why do people like to read erotic stories about women losing their virginity? Why does porn, or most adult

entertainment outlets, glorify “breaking” women in? According to an Oct. 25, 2016, Washington Post article, a 20-year-old woman named Katherine Stone, the only virgin working at the infamous legal brothel Kit Kat Ranch, decided to auction off her virginity. Stone said the highest bid was $400,000. While that was her decision and hers alone, it proves that a woman’s virginity is still seen as something valuable to a man when it shouldn’t be. Virginity should not be valuable to anyone other than the person it comes attached to, and only then if they choose to view it as such. In that moment, on that couch, I made the decision to not go through with it. Despite the decision being my own business about my body, I still felt like an adulterer. That is the most harrowing feeling of them all. bpawlingstennett@chroniclemail.com

The Columbia Chronicle | February 13, 2017

Aquarius

The stars say: get

Jan. 20–Feb. 18 You have a good head on your shoulders and genuinely care about people, but you can be a bit detached and stubborn. Advice: Use your rebellious spirit and go for the person you stare at in class. Sweet Spot: Calves and ankles

Taurus

April 20–May 20 Loyalty is your best quality, but you become attached quickly, leading to possessiveness. Advice: Let go of that possessiveness and consider the benefits of trying an open relationship. Sweet Spot: Neck

Leo

July 23–Aug. 22 You’re the most confident person in the room, but peers can take that the wrong way and think of you as vain. Advice: Use your confidence to take control; try blindfolding your partner. Sweet Spot: Back

Scorpio

sexy

Pisces

Feb. 19–March 20 You’re a loving and devoted partner, but when single, you can be hard on yourself and avoid looking for new relationships.

Advice: Use your charm and sensitivity to romance someone who will keep you grounded. Sweet Spot: Feet

May 21–June 20 You’re always ready for a good time and often go with the flow, but that makes for some impulsive decisions. Advice: Go skinny dipping with your friends and maybe even your crush. Sweet Spot: Hands and arms Aug. 23–Sept. 22 You have a thoughtful and analytical mind, which others can misconstrue as being cold and isolated. Advice: Don’t limit yourself by overthinking and try to let loose. Sweet Spot: Stomach

Aries

March 21–April 19 You’re usually ready to take on the world, but on a bad day, everyone needs to fear your wrath. Advice: Keep up the adventurousness and try that new sex position. Sweet Spot: Scalp, hair, ears

Gemini

Virgo

ZOË EITEL MANAGING EDITOR

Cancer

June 21–July 22 You’ve got a very caring spirit and can be depended on, but you also have contradictory qualities—oversensitivity or moodiness—that can confuse people. Advice: Don’t let hurt feelings affect your sex life. Sweet Spot: Chest

Libra

Sept. 23–Oct. 22 You are someone who tries to make everyone else happy before yourself, but sometimes things fall through the cracks. Advice: Take some time out of the day to have fun with yourself. Sweet Spot: Lower back

Oct. 23–Nov. 21 Sagittarius You are street smart and have a deep love Nov. 22–Dec. 21 for everyone in your life, but that can lead You are unattached and love being independent, but your to jealous and obsessive behaviors. loner attitude and behavior can make you seem uncaring and unemotional. Advice: Trust your relationships and discuss having a threesome with your significant other. Advice: Put aside your independence and let someone take care of you. Sweet Spot: Pelvic area Sweet Spot: Thighs

Capricorn

Dec. 22–Jan. 19 You are a natural leader with very clear ambitions and dreams, but you also tend to take things over and are distrusting of others. Advice: Try letting your significant other tie you up in the bedroom for a night. Sweet Spot: Legs and knees

The Sex Issue | The Columbia Chronicle

Baby-making Songs KENDRAH VILLIESSE ARTS & CULTURE REPORTER

“Rocket”

G-JUN YAM SENIOR PHOTO EDITOR

Beyoncé

“Careless Whisper”

George Michael

“Wicked Games”

The Weeknd

“Can’t Take My Eyes Off You”

John Lloyd Young

“Can’t Be Tamed”

Miley Cyrus

“Love In The 21st Century”

Neon Trees

Beyoncé

“Can You Feel the Love Tonight?”

Elton John

“Partition” “What You Need”

The Weeknd

“Animal”

Neon Trees

Don’t just read it.

Experience It.

. .. .

. . . . ..

www.columbiachronicle.com/ . multimedia . .. . ..

LAUREN KOSTIUK DIGITAL CONTENT MANAGER

“Girl” “Untitled (How Does it Feel)” “Prototype” “sobeautiful” “Pink + White”

STAFF PLAYLIST

ETHAN STOCKING-ANDERSON OPERATIONS COORDINATOR

The Internet

“One on One”

Hall and Oates

D’Angelo

“Take it Slow”

Bobby Brown

Outkast

“In the Mood”

The Whispers

Musiq Soulchild

“Is it You?”

Lee Ritenour

Frank Ocean

“Foreplay”

Fourplay

The Columbia Chronicle | February 13, 2017

Sexy Reviews APP

“GLIMMER” CAROLINE BOWEN METRO REPORTER

The Glimmer dating app offers an opportunity for dialogue about disabilities by allowing users to put them in their personal settings. Unlike Tinder, the app doesn’t promote quick swiping centered on physical attraction. Instead the app allows users to say if they are looking for a friendship or relationship and promotes more in-depth discussions by being more inclusive.

APP

“THE BACHELOR FANTASY LEAGUE” JACKIE MURRAY METRO REPORTER

The fact that people can bet on the success of others’ love lives already broadcast on national television should make anybody a little uneasy. Not going to lie though, a free trip to L.A. and tickets to the “After the Final Rose” ceremony would make me put my ethics to the side. Plus, it’s something to do when Corinne is napping.

: Warm

SCREEN

MUSIC

‘FIFTY SHADES DARKEST’

“JIZZ IN MY PANTS” BY LONELY ISLAND

ARIANA PORTALATIN CAMPUS EDITOR

During one of Ellen’s shows, she hilariously acts out a scene from her spoof of Jamie Dornan’s new movie “Fifty Shades Darker,” which was released in theaters Feb. 10. The spoof involves Ellen seducing Dornan with various office supplies while dressed as a Staples employee. What’s more seductive than a stapler and transparent tape, right?

SCREEN

SNL’S PORN DOCTOR SKETCH MARISA SOBOTKA CAMPUS REPORTER

Adam Driver stars as a doctor in a cheesy porn shoot in which a young girl, Aidy Bryant, confuses him for a real doctor and continues to pop in and out of the scene after Driver and his patient have engaged in some promiscuous activity. The dialogue is so clever and Driver never fails to make me laugh.

ZOË EITEL MANAGING EDITOR

Though this song made me laugh when it first came out in 2009, listening to it now just makes me cringe. Frontman Andy Samberg will always be a favorite of mine, but I’m glad he has moved on to less juvenile humor—even if it’s only a marginal shift. “I’m on a Boat,” on the other hand, will always be a Lonely Island classic.

MUSIC

“BODY MOVES” BY DNCE KENDRAH VILLIESSE ARTS & CULTURE REPORTER

This song will never disappoint! It is fun and playful that sends the DTF message through its lyrics and Joe Jonas’ sexual screams. Not to mention the music video adds the hot-and-heavy element with its home movie aesthetic, sexy elevator scenes and a shirtless Joe Jonas staring into your soul. How much better could the song get?

: Hot

: Blazin’

RANDOM

“TRUMP TEMPTATION” MEGAN BENNETT EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

I thought I would never hear “Trump” and “erotic novel” in the same sentence, but alas....I haven’t read Elijah Daniel’s pornographic tale—a romance between President Trump and a simple commoner—but just knowing it exists makes it a bit more difficult to sleep at night. Hopefully the author, who Trump blocked on Twitter, will soon retire from the “president porn” genre.

RANDOM

SNAPCHAT NUDES LAUREN KOSTIUK DIGITAL CONTENT MANAGER

Snapchat nudes are the perfect way to keep a relationship fresh, and now there is even a special spot in Snapchat’s memories to hide them for safe keeping. The best part is that they disappear after 10 seconds or less. Always remember to double check who’s receiving your nude, though, because mom will not be impressed.

The Sex Issue | The Columbia Chronicle

‘What are your kinks?’ THE CHRONICLE STAFF PORN CAN BE found anywhere and everywhere. Whether it is “vanilla” porn or something more extreme with a bit of leather and toys, most adults have seen a porno at some point. Digging a little deeper into the internet’s dark recesses, you can find results that can be surprising, e.g. slave Leia and Jabba the Hutt doing the deed. The Chronicle staff have curated a list of the rarer genres of porn they have come across willingly or by chance.

Anime Porn: Ever felt sexually attracted to the characters from “Attack on Titan” or your favorite anime show? If so, you may have to take a shot at watching anime porn, commonly referred to as “hentai.”

This genre of porn originated in Japan and may seem official but is usually not. Anime means “animation” in Japanese. Meanwhile its darker twin, hentai—which translates to “perverse sexual desire”—is straight up porn: cartoon porn, that is. Fan Fiction Porn: Whether you’re a fan of “Teen Wolf,” Wonder Woman or Harry Styles, the Internet is full of smutty stories depicting fan favorites with other people from their universe, celebrities or original characters created by fanfic authors. Some of the “normal” fan fictions have the classic “person meets another person and then they bang” storyline. The thematic fan fiction smut for those with more alternative kinks or specific desires include works with “mpreg,” or male pregnancy; ghosts; hybrids, aka a person

who is half-cat, or other animal, with a real tail and fuzzy ears; and ABO—alpha, beta, omega dynamics—in which characters exhibit certain characteristics of wolves or werewolves including having heats in which the female produces reproductive hormones that draws mates. These works are written and posted on sites such as ArchiveOfOurOwn.org by people with a little extra time on their hands and a vast imagination for those who want to read about Sherlock Holmes and John Watson getting it on. Celebrity Look-Alike Porn: If you have ever had a sexy dream about a favorite celebrity or just wanted to see someone famous get down and dirty, then celebrity look-alike porn might be for you, since you probably will not be able to find porn starring

your actual celebrity crushes. Do not worry because there are plenty of look-alike porn stars—even Oprah Winfrey has one. Celebrity look-alike porn does not always have to star entertainment celebrities but can also star look-alikes for public figures such as Sarah Palin or Barack Obama. So, whether politics or pop culture turns you on, you can definitely find what you are looking for with celebrity look-alike porn. Comedy Porn: For those who love to laugh as much as they love to get off, this genre of porn should be next in line. This genre intentionally uses comedy to entertain or features porn that is so far from reality that it becomes more funny than sexy. Sites like EFukt.com provide compilations of clips of various types of comedy porn to make your viewing experience easier. Notable parodies include pornos of famous movies and shows. “SpongeBob SquarePants,” “Scooby-Doo,” ‘90s sitcom “Friends” and fantasy pornography, which relies

PrEP is short for pre-exposure Prophylaxis. It’s a new HIV Prevention Method!

Worried about getting HIV? Not always using condoms? Is your partner positive or are you unsure? Come talk to HBHC about a pill that when taken every day greatly reduces your chance of getting HIV.

Insured or uninsured - We Can Help. For more info, call 773.388.1600 or e-mail PrEP@howardbrown.org HBHC also provides primary care and trans and reproductive health services. Schedule an appointment by calling 773.388.1600.

on unconventional premises—like being an alien or a pirate—tend to be both humorous and erotic. Basically, anything you think is funny comes in an X-rated format, so you don’t have to give up your humor while masturbating. Vomit Porn: Japan has made many contributions to Western culture and for better or for worse that includes vomit porn. Also known as emetophilia, vomit porn is one of the many sexual fetishes that has not made the jump between cultures. While bukkake and tentacles have made relatively stable transitions into Western society, vomit porn has been thrown (up) to the wayside. Just imagine your most average, run-of-the-mill pornography scene—two people, either about to have or in the process of having sex. Now imagine you insert vomiting into that. This genre of porn has transcended the bounds of normal pornography. chronicle@colum.edu

The Columbia Chronicle | February 13, 2017

Vibrate for women’s rights ARIEL PARRELLA-AURELI ARTS & CULTURE EDITOR “THE BEST CONVERSATIONS happen over brunch,” said Kyle Ann Sebastian, whose mealtime discussion about state politics fundraising with a friend led to a fresh idea for an upcoming fundraiser: a vibrator race on behalf of women’s reproductive rights. Sebastian, who co-organized the Feb. 16 event, said the idea came from former Illinois State Senator Gary Forby, who raced vibrators for his primary fundraiser, though the politician was not necessarily an ally to women or progressive causes. Sebastian decided to take back the cause and use vibrators to promote reproductive freedom. Sebastian is a member of Personal PAC’s Future Voices Council, a local nonprofit organization of dedicated volunteers under 40 who work to support women’s reproduc-

tive rights by electing pro-choice Illinois officials and hosting reoccurrisng fundraisers. When the Trump presidency signaled its intention to narrow reproductive rights, people responded with the international Women’s March Jan. 21. Now, local groups such as FVC are standing up to the White House and local politicians through outspoken action like the quirky vibrator race. Natalie Federle, co-chair of FVC, said Trump’s election dshows thathat Personal PAC’s work is crucial. Fighting pro-life groups and surrounding states with more restrictive

abortion laws is the current challenge, especially because more anti-choice politicians were elected locally in last year’s election season. “Although we are in some ways more equipped to fight in Illinois because we are used to being a more open state, the anti-choice politicians here feel galvanized,” Federle said. “The political culture will continue to be toxic for women’s reproductive choices, so this is probably the most perilous time of my personal life.” Fellow co-Chair Aileen Kim said safe spaces for women in Illinois

» JAMES TSITIRIDIS/CHRONICLE

are being threatened. Because the organization assists women from neighboring states, the pressure is on to keep Illinois accessible for women in the region. The fundraiser will mimic turtle racing and have three rounds—federal, congressional and state—with three vibrators. Each vibrator will have its own anti-choice politician’s face on it, and attendees can place bets on who will win. Tickets are $1 and will include a raffle ticket. Prizes include a vibrator to take home—packaged and unopened. These races are a new fad, with competitions everywhere from Las Vegas casinos to bachelorette parties. Vibrators are placed on a slanted table or track and vibrate to a finish line. The council wanted to bring attention to the newly elected officials pushing to take away reproductive healthcare, Kim said, and showing the “least favorite antichoice dick” was a perfect fit. The Race for Choice event, at Big Chicks, 5024 N. Sheridan Road in Andersonville, is new for FVC, but

Sebastian said she hopes it will become a regular event. Although the divide surrounding women’s reproductive health care is wide, Dennis Murphy, co-chair of volunteer group Illinois Choice Action Team, knows it takes two to tango and realizes the responsibility men have in the abortion financial issue. “Men have to step up and become part of the solution here,” Murphy said. “Women are being saddled with all the downsides of pregnancy and childbirth, and the men can just walk away from it.” He noted the anti-choice perspective is often old white men attempting to narrow women’s choices, such as one of Illinois’ most loud supporters of anti-choice, Joseph Scheidler of the Pro-Life Action League. “Why is this old white man trying to make decisions on how women should live their lives and manage their healthcare?” Murphy said. aparrella@chroniclemail.com

FREE MONTH? Excellence in Self Storage Competitive Prices Easy Online Payment Options Climate Controlled Storage Video Camera Security & Keypad Access Secure & Well-Lit 24-Hour Call Center Handcarts Available

WINTER

STORAGE

SPECIAL

www.ustorit.com (312) 883-9661

YOU’VE GOTTA BE KITTEN ME! Chicago’s Tallest

Self Storage Facility

SOUTH LOOP

615 S Wabash Ave Chicago, IL 60605

The Sex Issue | The Columbia Chronicle

brand new apartments coming summer 2017!

LoVe wHere You LiVe.

COMMUNITY AMENITIES club, game & media rooms Café With Free Single-Serve Coffee Maker Tech Hub – Quickly Connect Online & Enjoy Free Printing Lounge Areas | Study Lounge | High-Speed internet & wi-Fi 24-Hour Fitness center with cardio & weights outdoor terraces with gas grills, Fire pit, Indoor/Outdoor Fireplace & Large Screen TV Sky Lounge & Terrace with Panoramic Views Of The Chicago Skyline Indoor Bike Storage & Repair Station ground Floor retail 24-Hour Emergency Maintenance/ Management Secure Parcel Delivery Area at Main Lobby controlled building access

APARTMENT AMENITIES Modern, Fully Furnished Units with Floor to ceiling windows each bedroom Has it’s own bathroom Luxury Finishes Including Quartz Countertops & Stainless Steel Appliances Washer & Dryer In Unit Flat screen 40” HdtV with robust Cable/Internet Package Gear Wall | Walk In Closets

LIVE AT: 30 EAST BALBO AVE. CHICAGO, IL 60605 LEASE AT: 400 SOUTH DEARBORN CHICAGO, IL 60605 331-256-5131 | www.30EastApts.com | For more info text 30EAST to 47464

@30Eastapts