Breast cancer is unfortunately a part of many women’s histories. So, to close out Women’s History Month, I was inspired to write this article. I got my first mammogram on March 31st, and I thought it would be helpful to share my experience as well as more information about breast cancer that is important for everyone to know.
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Frida Kahlo, Margaret Keane, & Unknowns.
It has come to my attention that there will soon be a (and when there's one, there's often more) well-meaning exhibit at a Connecticut university where students will be showing creative works such as art and poetry that deal with sexual harassment and assault.
Roman on Chicago Metro, photo credit: B. Sounds
I was on the Chicago metro when I took a picture of the in-your-face advertising for the up and coming erectile dysfunction pill called Roman. This was the second time I saw the ad. The first time was in May, after buying a single ride ticket to get on the Manhattan 6 line. I turned from the ticket machine and saw generation Y faces plastered like wallpaper everywhere my eyes could see.
So many questions popped into my media literacy mind: How much do these cities get paid by Roman and how do they use the money? Why are they marketing to younger males? Is it mandatory for pharmaceutical companies to have an ethics board? How easy is it to get a Roman prescription?
Marching,
Where will the footsteps lead? Moving up, we were all moving to the same beat. Your thoughts are my thoughts. Your heart is mine. Don’t hide, don’t hide – We love you. Sunday, June 24th was the 49th annual Pride Parade. I went and was met with positivity and hope in this era of uprising turmoil concerning civil rights, which includes threats to equal treatment of the LGBTQ+ community. I went to support equality. No one should be discriminated against, harassed, or assaulted for their natural and normal sexuality. Love is love/Sex is sex. I only took a few pictures since I just wanted to absorb it all, but I can tell you what I saw.
In light of the news and conversations about sexual harassment and assault committed by celebrities and other people well-known to the public, it needs to be pointed out that this does not only happen in the workplace, wherever that may be for someone. It really happens everywhere.
One place it tends to be normalized is on the dance floor of clubs, bars, and at concerts. I know it took me a long time to see it for what it is. It is Not ok. How hard is it to ask someone if they want to be touched in any way? Additionally, what are the security guards/bouncers at bars and clubs doing to interfere and lessen this to set a firm example that consent is a must-have? (Nothing from what I’ve seen). It does not have to be this way. June is Men’s Health Month. The health of everyone is important, however the spotlight on men’s health seems to be just beginning to shine brighter. A lot of people might roll their eyes at this since the patriarchy is still alive and kicking, but there is validity in encouraging men to be more aware of their health and to make it a priority.
In the current political climate of the United States there has been so much news and talk about Planned Parenthood; rightfully so. Planned Parenthood Federation of America, Inc. is an outstanding organization that has been providing essential healthcare and education for 100 years, and it would be a disservice to the public if it were ever to disappear. However – dare I say? – the way many people, even people who support the organization and the way Planned Parenthood tends to promote its services could be improved.
What does it mean to be sex positive?
It is a term that has been buzzing around for a bit. Sex positivity is about having and embracing a comprehensive understanding of human sexuality. This includes consent, practicing safer sex, getting tested, and not judging oneself or others for what they may be into or their past experiences. How powerful it can be when popular musicians release songs that have to do with sexuality. Such a relatable topic, yet sometimes it is musicians who get the ball rolling for people to learn and have more conversations about it. Music like this can be comforting, inspirational, and can even strike social justice movements. Here is a list – just a taste – of some songs that relate to a more positive mindset of sexuality. Enjoy. Clothing keeps us warm, protects us from other environmental harm, and can be a beautiful way to decorate ourselves. But what's underneath is good too.
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