Laura's Corner
I work very hard and am attending college to obtain my degree in the Human Service field. Writing makes me feel alive and gives me the opportunity to touch those whom I would not be able to otherwise. Last but not least, I have been blessed with two amazing daughters who love me completely and support my dreams. Feel free to contact me with questions, concerns or feedback.
PRIDEfest?
I want to begin by saying that I do not believe it is any of my business regarding what others choose to do in the privacy of their own home. I do not have enough time in my life to worry about Tom, Sue or Larry or their significant other.
I recently delved into an area that few “straight” individuals choose to go. Some would call it the dark side, others not. What ever floats your boat, here it goes. I went to Pridefest. I went for a few reasons. One, I got in for free. Two, I wanted a rarely touched subject to write about. Three, I was able to talk with a few interesting individuals. Last but not least, I wanted to address a few concerns with the entire community in general.
Pridefest was established to celebrate the diversity of a lesbian, gay, bi-sexual or transgendered lifestyle. I am all about celebrating differences regarding sexuality but I also believe they missed the mark regarding the positive meaning regarding what true pride stands for.
The general definition of pride is: a feeling of pleasure from one’s own achievements, the achievements of those with whom one is associated, or from qualities or possessions that are widely admired, a sense of one’s own proper dignity or value; self respect.
Another definition could be seen as: arrogant or disdainful conduct or treatment.
Sexuality in and of itself should be celebrated. It is a gift, something to be explored and experienced. When in the context of an consensual adult relationship, it can bring about happiness and healing as well. To those who disagree, tell that to the thousands of nerve endings which smile when stimulated.
Once again, I am all for one’s freedom to experience, explore and enjoy. I am all for one’s right to be whoever they want to be, in and out of the bedroom.
That said, what I am NOT for is a festival, museum or entity allowing public displays of sexual affection to be viewed by children under the age of consent.
Case in point. I entered a stage area towards the north end of the Summerfest grounds. A large man with sunglasses stands towards the back of the stage. He appeared to be a Vee Jay or some sort of bouncer. The music starts playing. A second man appears and walks to the front of the stage. He is wearing an S&M type of leather outfit, butt-less chaps and has a whip in his hand. A third, much younger man emerges and joins guy #2 on the front of the stage. sporting leather underpants and some sort of boots. Guy #2 and 3 proceed to put on an “act”. The younger man is bent over, appearing to be humped from behind and eventually comes to wear a dog collar, leash and gag around his mouth. He is eventually led off stage by his “master” and the next act appears.
Kind of leaves you speechless, hey?
I know, I know, you can find all sorts of stuff on the internet. I am sure there is much worse. Yet, the internet is monitored by parents more often than not. Most install “child proof locks” to protect children from pornography and keep them safe from predators. Yet, I have no idea how a man or woman can justify bringing their YOUNG CHILDREN to this festival. I am more than certain that this is the same man or woman who refuses to allow their son or daughter to view sexuality on a television show. As if a live performance somewhat lessens the blow.
Little Johnny, “Mom, how about you and I go to the sextival this weekend? Sounds like fun, I can see men and women groping one another, young girls wearing close to nothing and play with a bunch of other kids in the pond next to the man wearing heels, you know, the one who looks like Tammy Faye. No, I have no idea what sex is but I am sure I will come out well informed.”
Sometimes the greater good has to step forward. Isn’t it time that officials do what is right instead of allowing more children to be exposed to adult material? What can we, as a society, do to clean up the trash?
It’s time that Pridefest makes a decision on behalf of what pride is all about. Either clean up your act or prohibit anyone under the age of 18 from attending your festival. It’s a win-win situation for all.
You’re welcome!
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