The Power of Words
Here’s something for sex nerds and cunning linguists alike: a significant study of the words that have been used in sex research and study over close to 50 years. Language continually plays a huge role in how sexual culture progresses. It influences and defines us as individuals, in relationships and as social groups. It shapes our laws and the direction of social growth. Someone like Harvey Weinstein might claim to be a product of an earlier time. And yes, we did not have the language, at that time, to articulate as clearly how what he has been doing is wrong. But we do now and we all have a responsibility to keep up with changes. You may not like it, but language is a part of evolution. Those who can’t evolve get left behind.
Understanding Intersex
Speaking of language and change, one group of people we should to learn more about and hear more from are those who identify as Intersex. It is estimated that 1.7% of the U.S. population can identify in some way as Intersex. Although there are different criteria that determine whether a person fits that description, the pathological definitions are becoming less important. Rather, advocacy, identity discussion, and human rights recognition are presenting as the forefront concerns. There is still much to learn for those who are not involved, but good steps forward are being taken.
Turning Tom
Another way we can tell that our sexual culture is on the move and evolving is when our artists get involved. The iconic works of Tom of Finland have fueled both the libidos and politics of the gay community for years. The hypermasculine figures Finland often presents had a difficult route to being seen, but are now an instantly recognizable part of queer culture. That doesn’t mean they aren’t open for reinterpretation, though. Canadian musician and artist GB Jones may very well have been ahead of her time with her project Tom Girls. As part of the seminal queercore zine JDs, Jones subverted Tom of Finland’s work by using female characters. She made the images for women, by women. JDs was published many years ago, but the way GB includes depictions of punishing oppressive men is very applicable to our current times.
