Sex (and Sexuality) in the News: Weekly Roundup — Nov 06, 2023
Unsplash: Strvnge Films
Stay informed and entertained with our curated weekly roundup of 'Sex (and sexuality) in the News.' Explore articles, updates, and trends related to human intimacy, relationships, and identity, including insights into legislation, law, and censorship, as well as engaging topics such as enhancing your sex life and experiencing deeper levels of pleasure. Article summaries were co-written with the help of ChatGPT.
Gvibe’s happiness guarantee program: Your satisfaction, our promise
Introducing Gvibe's new Happiness Guarantee Program, a risk-free way to explore pleasure on one's own terms! The program allows customers to try their pleasure toys for 30 days, and if they're not satisfied, they can get a refund in the form of store credit—even for used items. The program reflects Gvibe's commitment to empowering individuals to embrace their desires and experience sexual wellness with confidence.
Given the challenges and potential intimidation that individuals with limited or no experience in purchasing sex toys and pleasure products may face, this new initiative offers empowerment for those seeking to overcome the learning curve of acquiring a new adult toy.
Gvibe
Even in femtech, it still pays to be a male founder
Even in the femtech sector, where more than 70% of startups are founded by women, male-founded startups continue to raise significantly more capital than their female counterparts. Data from PitchBook reveals that over the last five years, male femtech founders consistently raised more money, with 2023 being the only exception. The trend persists because male founders are often involved in areas like fertility and cancer treatment, which investors relate to more easily. This underscores ongoing biases in the investment world, suggesting that male co-founders bring more credibility to startups. While progress has been made, these figures highlight the need for more funding and gender equity in tech innovation.
sifted • Selin Bucak
An ally’s guide to letting LGBTQ+ ideas lead creativity
From author, Graham Nolan, on LinkedIn (June 2023)…
“I don't think our creative industry has ever taught cishet folks how to elevate queer ideas – period. I'm grateful to help kick off Pride by helping allies explore what it looks like to put LGBTQ+ ideas in the lead.
LGBTQ+ people: When you see an ally who says "I'm here to help!" send them this, so they can get started.
Allies: You've heard Pride is a protest. Please protest what you've been taught about the heteronormative creative process and industry culture. Why did you join the industry, if not to defy convention?”
Adweek • Graham Nolan
Related:
Proposed porn age verification bill in Ohio raises serious civil liberties concerns
On October 11, Ohio Rep. Steve Demetriou introduced House Bill (HB) 295, known as the Innocence Act. The bill aims to implement age verification requirements to protect minors from online pornography. It includes punitive criminal charges for companies and webmasters failing to implement age verification methods, making it considerably aggressive compared to other such regulations in the country.
Critics, including First Amendment attorney Corey Silverstein, argue that the bill is driven by a right-wing religious agenda and ignores the First Amendment. They express concerns about potential criminal charges for teenagers trying to circumvent age restrictions, potentially using virtual private networks (VPNs).
The bill is seen as an attempt to aggressively regulate sexual speech and disregard decades of First Amendment case law protecting consensual online pornography. It is criticized for violating privacy rights and free expression, with advocates calling for legislation that ensures safety online without compromising fundamental rights and freedoms.
Cleveland Scene • Michael McGrady Jr.
Inside the alliance defending freedom, the anti-LGBTQ org where Mike Johnson spent almost a decade
The Alliance Defending Freedom (ADF) has played a significant role in advocating for a record-breaking number of anti-LGBTQ bills in the United States, with over 70 of the 501 introduced passing into law. The ADF, a Christian legal group, presents itself as a protector of religious freedom but is seen by critics as working to undermine LGBTQ rights both domestically and globally. Their involvement includes substantial influence in the Supreme Court, with notable victories, and a strong presence in international human rights organizations. ADF's financial power has increased, with substantial donations from various sources.
Critics argue that their actions harm LGBTQ individuals, make them more vulnerable to hate crimes, and legitimize hostility. The organization's influence poses a threat to human rights, and vigilance in monitoring their activities is deemed essential.
Rolling Stone • Spencer Macnaughton
Related:
U.S. religious right at center of anti-LGBTQ+ message pushed around the world
Uganda’s new anti-LGBTQ bill grew out of a poisonous American seed
Uganda just made homosexuality punishable by death. American evangelical groups played a role
Google searches for “am I gay” are up a whopping 1,300% since 2004
Google searches related to questions about sexuality and gender identity, such as "Am I gay?" or "Am I trans?", have surged by over 1,300% from 2004 to 2023, according to a study by the Cultural Currents Institute. The study examined five key search terms, including "am I gay," "am I lesbian," "am I trans," "how to come out," and "nonbinary." Utah ranked highest in searches for three of these terms, while other search patterns varied by state. The increase in these searches is attributed to greater internet access among young people and a growing trend of openly exploring one's queerness and gender identity, particularly among Generation Z.
them • Abby Monteil
What to watch for when invited to a documentary on “trans issues”
Individuals, especially activists, should exercise caution when invited to participate in interviews or documentaries related to transgender issues. Deceptive tactics and misrepresentation are commonly used to promote anti-trans agendas. To avoid falling into such traps, they can take several measures, including researching the producers and their affiliations, checking for LGBTQ+ reporting experience, confirming queer and trans representation in the production team, and inquiring about the framing of the documentary.
Seeking insights from LGBTQ+ organizations or industry contacts can also help assess the legitimacy of documentary inquiries. This awareness is crucial to prevent individuals from being misled and unwittingly supporting anti-trans narratives.
Erin in the Morning • Erin Reed
What sex during pregnancy is actually like, according to women who’ve had it
In contemporary society, there is an evolving perspective on pregnancy, especially among soon-to-be parents. Many individuals embarking on this journey seek a transformative and empowering experience that allows them to maintain their sexual identity. Some expectant individuals report feeling particularly attractive during pregnancy, leading to an increase in intimacy.
The article delves into the author's personal fascination with pregnancy and their curiosity about the unexplored dimensions of their sexuality. It also shares experiences of other new parents who found their encounters during pregnancy to be exceptionally satisfying. The article discusses the use of sex toys, potential risks associated with intimacy during pregnancy, and offers practical tips for those expecting, such as open communication, experimentation, communal support, and building confidence in their evolving bodies. In essence, the article underscores the importance of embracing pregnancy as a unique and fulfilling phase in one's sexual journey.
Allure • Varuna Srinivasan
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