DIY Discovery
Zine culture has always been a big part of changing and rethinking sexual cultures. For years, some of the most influential thinkers and creators have come from the cut-and-paste tradition of DIY publishing. Having been a part of that scene for 20 years, I am glad that self-produced sex zines are a still a thing and that people are continuing this great tradition. A big reason for their enduring appeal is that fantastic information that is being shared - sexual content and education that you’re not going to find anywhere else. Lately, this includes a delightful sexual technique called muffing. Shared in the inestimable zine Fucking Trans Women, muffing sounds like a very hot way to have some delicious sexytimes with a trans woman. While trans people are becoming better understood, the mainstream isn’t really reporting or providing education on things like sex tips and pleasure techniques. And we need it! Currently sex ed is very limited and I hope educators are looking beyond the standard fare to reach all audiences.
Reclaiming Slut Shaming
One of the reasons Vanessa de Largie is one of the best sex writers around is because she can always make us consider the many different sides to a situation. Her recent piece should make everyone think about how and when slut shaming starts and the effect it has on girls and women throughout their lives. But Vanessa takes it one step further by applying thinking from a recent study on promiscuity and applying ideas of resiliency. By acknowledging how she has been slut shamed, she can draw strength from the experiences. Being able to move beyond the stigma is amazing and hopefully others will be inspired. Let’s not forget those for whom this might not be possible and offer care and support. As Vanessa notes, slut shaming is so ingrained in our society, people may not even know they are propagating these hurtful ideas. So we should cheer those who can make it through, and help those who struggle with the effects.
