(source)
September 29th, is marked as National
Coffee Day. My guess is that National Coffee Day originated from coffee companies in attempts to market their product. In reality I have no idea. Even so there are organizations that dedicate much to the research and enjoyment of coffee.
According to the National Coffee Association, an Ethiopian goat herder named Kaldi was the first to realize potential benefits of coffee: “It is said that he discovered coffee after noticing that his goats, upon eating berries from a certain tree, became so spirited that they did not want to sleep at night.”
According to ABC Local Health and Living, there have been approximately 19,000 studies done on the health risks and benefits of coffee over the past twenty years.
Although, coffee may have some health benefits, The American Dietetic Association says that one should not exceed 200 to 300 milligrams of caffeine a day -- that equates to two to three cups of coffee, or a few shots of espresso. More than that can potentially lead to ulcers and insomnia.
According to Mayo Clinic, Coffee may have benefits such as protecting against Parkinson's disease, type 2 diabetes and liver cancer. Coffee has high content of antioxidants. Even so, it is suggested that coffee be consumed in moderation. High consumption of unfiltered coffee can cause elevation in blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
Studies continue and no doubt more information about the benefits and risks of coffee will be made known. Until then it sounds like coffee in moderation is helpful. So, celebrate National Coffee Day and grab yourself a cup of Joe/Jane
As an anti-porn feminist I do not advocate stripping in clubs however, I do recognize pole dancing as an art and a skill. In fact many pro-pole dancing events take place all over the world.
Take a look at these two talented ladies. I'm involved in various styles of dance and videos like these have me considering pole dancing.
In I wrote about a documentary entitled, The Bridge. The film reveals several stories of individuals who have jumped to their deaths from the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco. The bridge is considered the most popular suicidal destinations. Director Eric Steel and his crew spent all of 2004 documenting around the clock. The film captured 23 people jumping from the bridge.
Today I came across this 20 minute documentary by Vice Magazine. The Aokigahara Forest also known as The Sea of Trees, is the second most popular suicide destination. Up to 100 people flock to the forest to commit suicide every year.
The forest lies at the north west base of Mount Fuji in Japan. The high suicide rate has resulted in posted signs within the forest which encourage suicidal individuals to choose life over death. The signs are posted in Japanese and in English. Annual body search, consisting of a small army of police, volunteers and attendant journalists, began in 1970.
I am posting this video in the hopes to provide some insight into the concept of suicide and to promote prevention.
This looks like so much fun. But how long can one do this? What happens when you want to get out? How do you do it? I wonder how many people are peeing in that pool.
A new video by Sputniko! (http://sputniko.com/blog) I'm a female artist and the machine is not only for men, it can also be worn by women in future when menstruation might become something obsolete - I'm not suggesting when or by whom this machine would be used - after much research with reproductive scientists (which I write in my website) I know that the psychologies which people associate with menstruation is too complex to make the reason for using such a device so simple - this music video is just one example of many possibilities.
Fitted with a blood dispensing mechanism and lower-abdomen-stimulating electrodes, the Menstruation Machine simulates the pain and bleeding of an average 5 day menstruation process of a human. Menstruation Machine (Takashi's Take) is a music video about a boy 'Takashi', who builds the machine in an attempt to dress up as a female, biologically as well as aesthetically, to fulfill his desire to understand what it might feel like to be a truely kawaii (cute) girl. He determinedly wears the machine to hang out with his kawaii friend in Tokyo, but...
Nyan Cat is an internet meme. The cat's body is a cherry Pop-Tart flying through space, leaving a rainbow trail behind it. The animated gif is set to a remix of the song "Nyanyanyanyanyanyanya!".
I can't tell you how thrilled I am. I have always wanted to try Japanese DIY edible food candy. They aren't sold in the United States however, I have just discovered a website that allows you to order them online! The candies are imported from Japan to Singapore.
All videos below are from YouTube user RRCherryPie
Japanese snack by Kracie - Popin' Cookin' - Spaghetti and Pizza (Ingredients: (grape flavored gummy candy, soft candy, jello)
Japanese snack by Kracie - Popin' Cookin' - Soft Serve Ice Cream (Ingredients: wafers, vanilla/strawberry flavored cream)
Japanese snack by Kracie - Popin' Cookin' - Sushi (Ingredients: grape flavored jello/gummy candy/soft candy)
Japanese snack by Kracie - Popin' Cookin' - Ramen Noodles and Gyoza (Ingredients: soda flavored soft candies. Soup = soy sauce flavor)
Japanese snack by Kracie - Popin' Cookin' - Bento (Ingredients: Muscat, grape, strawberry flavored jello. Yogurt flavored gummy candy)
Japanese snack by Meiji - Chocolate House
Japanese snack by Kracie - Happy Kitchen - Doughnuts (Ingredients: vanilla/strawberry flavored cream. chocolate)
Japanese snack by Glico called Collon
Japanese snack by Glico called Giant Caplico
Japanese snack by Kracie Happy Kitchen - Cupcakes (Ingredients: vanilla/strawberry flavored cream)
Japanese snack by Meiji - Hamburger Gummy Candy (Ingredients: (cola, green apple, pineapple flavored gummies. The buns are made out of Japanese wafer called Monaka)
Japanese snack by Kracie Popin' Cookin' - (Ingredients: grape, soda flavored soft candies)
Japanese snack by Kracie Popin' Cookin' - Crepes - (Ingredients: custard/strawberry flavored jello, wafer)
I just discovered this great website called WTF Japan Seriously. I imagine the WTF stands for "What the Fuck." It features Japanese commercial advertisements and other footage. They are all quirky, creative, and odd. Right up my alley.
PonPonPon
"PONPONPON" performed by Kyary Pamyu Pamyu, produced by Yasutaka Nakata (capsule).
Debut mini album "Moshi Moshi Harajuku" (means "Hello Harajuku").
I just discovered this great website called WTF Japan Seriously. I imagine the WTF stands for "What the Fuck." It features Japanese commercial advertisements and other footage. They are all quirky, creative, and odd. Right up my alley.
I just discovered this great website called WTF Japan Seriously. I imagine the WTF stands for "What the Fuck." It features Japanese commercial advertisements and other footage. They are all quirky, creative, and odd. Right up my alley.
I just discovered this great website called WTF Japan Seriously. I imagine the WTF stands for "What the Fuck." It features Japanese commercial advertisements and other footage. They are all quirky, creative, and odd. Right up my alley.
I just discovered this great website called WTF Japan Seriously. I imagine the WTF stands for "What the Fuck." It features Japanese commercial advertisements and other footage. They are all quirky, creative, and odd. Right up my alley.
The below video is dedicated to feces. I am often repulsed by bathroom humor but for some reason I was able to tolerate this. But just barely. Although, my face was scrunched for the entire duration of this video, a part of me think this is pretty awesome.
I just discovered this great website called WTF Japan Seriously. I imagine the WTF stands for "What the Fuck." It features Japanese commercial advertisements and other footage. They are all quirky, creative, and odd. Right up my alley.
Unfortunately WTF Japan Seriously, did not provide a title for the below video. Enjoy.
Everest by Ani Difranco - small intimate performance - Scarborough, Maine @ Bull Moose Music
pre-Record Store Day performance - April 17, 2009
from the depth of the pacific
to the height of everest
and still the world is smoother
than a shiny ball-bearing
so i take a few steps back
and put on a wider lens
and it changes your skin,
your sex, and what your wearing
distance shows your *silhouette*
to be a lot like mine
like a sphere is a sphere
and all of us here
have been here all the time
yeah, we've been here all the time
you brought me to church
cinder blocks, fluorescent light
you brought me to church
at seven o'clock on a sunday night
and the band was rockin'
and the floors were scrubbed clean
and everybody had a tambourine
so i took a deep breath and became
the white girl with the hair
and you sat right beside me
while everybody stared
and through the open window
i think the singing went outside
and floated up to tell
all the stars not to hide
'cuz by the time church let out
the sky was much clearer
and the moon was so beautiful
that the ocean held up a mirror
as we walked home we spoke slowly
we spoke slow
and we spoke lowly
like it was taking more time
than usual to choose
the words to go
with your squeaky sandal shoes
like time is not a thing
that's ours to lose
from the height of the pacific
to the depths of the everest...
For more information about Ani Difranco visit her official website here.
I am a feminist Christian who is in favor of marijuana legalization. Is that an oxymoron? I don't think it is. Here is a heartbreaking but beautiful diddy about the drug war.
Tis' of Thee by Ani Difranco - performed at the 2000 Ralph Nader rally - Introduction by Susan Sarandon
they caught the last poor man on a poor man's vacation
they cuffed him and they confiscated his stuff
and they dragged his black ass down to the station
and said "ok the streets are safe now.
all your pretty white children can come out to see spot run
and they came out of their houses and they looked around
but they didn't see no one.
and my country tis of thee
to take swings at each other on talk show tv
why don't you just go ahead and turn off the sun
'cause we'll never live long enough to
undo everything they've done to you
undo everything they've done to you
and above 96th street,
they're handing out smallpox blankets
so people don't freeze
the old dogs they got a new trick
it's called criminalize the symptoms
while you spread the disease
i hold on hard to something
between my teeth when i'm sleeping
and i wake up and my jaw aches
and the earth is full of earthquakes
and my country tis of thee
to take shots at each other on prime time tv
why don't you just go ahead and turn off the sun
'cause we'll never live long enough to
undo everything they've done to you
undo everything they've done to you
they caught the last poor man
flying away in a shiny red cape
and they brought him down to the station
and they said "boy you should know better
than to try and escape"
and i ran away with the circus
'cause there's still some honest work left for bearded ladies
but it's not the same goin' town to town
since they put everyone in jail 'cept
the cleavers and the bradys
and my country tis of thee
to take swings at each other on talk show tv
why don't you just go ahead and turn off the sun
'cause we'll never live long enough to
undo everything they've done to you
undo everything they've done to you
For more information about Ani Difranco visit her official website here.
I am a feminist Christian who is in favor of legalizing marijuana. Is that an oxymoron? I don't think so. Here's a little diddy about the drug war by the wondrous Ani Difranco.
Evolve by Ani Difranco - Recorded for her Trust dvd
i walk in stride with people
much taller than me
and partly it's the boots but
mostly it's my chi
and i'm becoming transfixed
with nature and my part in it
which i believe just signifies
i'm finally waking up
and there's this moth outside my kitchen door
she's bonkers for that bare bulb
flying round in circles
bashing in her exoskull
and out in the woods she navigates fine by the moon
but get her around a light bulb and she's doomed
she is trying to evolve
she's just trying to evolve
now let's get talking reefer madness
like some arrogant government can't
by any stretch of the imagination
outlaw a plant
yes, their supposed authority over nature
is a dream
c'mon people
we've got to come clean cuz they are locking our sons
and our daughters in cages
they are taking by the thousands
our lives from under us
it's a crash course in religious fundamentals
now let's all go to war
get some bang for our buck i am trying to evolve
i'm just trying to evolve
gunnin for high score in the land of dreams
morbid bluish-white consumers ogling luminous screens
on the trail of forgetting
cruising without a care
the jet lag won't abide by that pesky jet lag
and our lives boil down to an hour or two
when someone pulls a camera out of a bag
and i am trying to evolve
i'm just trying to evolve
so i walk like i'm on a mission
cuz that's the way i groove
i got more and more to do
i got less and less to prove
it took me too long to realize
that i don't take good pictures
cuz i have the kind of beauty
that moves
For more information about Ani Difranco visit her official website, here.
"So, I was at some kind of a press conference earlier...and the question was Bonnaroo, it's either the beginning of your career or the end, it's the most important thing you'll ever do, and you have to do something really special... what are you gonna do?"
Manhole by Ani Difranco
I'm holding here a book
notable, but not the greatest
stolen for me by the latest
in a long line of thieves
and i'm just about to drop it
down that manhole of memories
when i realize it doesn't bother me
like love's mementos usually do
and i look up to see who's different here
the latest me or the latest you
course, you're the kind of guy who doesn't lie
he just doctors everything
chooses some unassuming finger
and quietly moves his wedding ring
who rewrites his autobiography
for any pretty girl who'll sing
but you can't fool the queen, baby
cuz i married the king
and maybe it was i who betrayed his majesty
with no opposite reality
like a puddle with no reflection
of the sky or the trees
but after my dreaded beheading
i tied that sucker back on with a string
and i guess i'm pretty different now
considering
i kissed you on the street that night
on the far side of four
but i didn't like the taste
in my mouth or yours
and ignoring the persona you wore for my benefit
for once i had the balls to call it
just call it
but a lesson must be lived
in order to be learned
and the clarity to see and stop this now
that is what i've earned
and maybe it was i who betrayed his majesty
with no opposite reality
like a puddle with no reflection
of the sky or the trees
but after my dreaded beheading
i tied that sucker back on with a string
and i guess i'm pretty different now
considering
i'm holding here a book
notable, but not the greatest
stolen for me by the latest
in a long line of thieves
and i'm just about to drop it
down that manhole of memories
when i realize it doesn't bother me
and heartache not so dire
cuz i looked up to see integrity
finally won over desire
For more information visit the official Ani Difranco website here.
Angry Anymore by Ani Difranco - Accompanied by then bandmate Julie Wolf - Midland Theatre - Kansas City, MO - 03-04-1999
growing up, it was just me and my mom against the world.
and all my sympathies were with her when i was a little girl
and i've seen both my parents play out the hands that they were dealt
as each year goes by, i know more about how my father must have felt.
i just want you to understand that i know what all the fighting
was for, and i just want you to understand that i'm not angry anymore.
no, i'm not angry anymore.
she taught me how to wage cold war with quiet charm
but i just want to walk through my life unarmed.
to accept, and just get by like my father learned to do,
but without all the acceptance of getting by that got my father through
i just want you to understand that i know what all the fighting was for
and i just want you to understand that i'm not angry anymore.
no, i'm not angry anymore.
night falls like people into love
we generate our own light to compensate
for the lack of light from above.
every time we fight a cold wind blows our way,
we can learn like the trees, how to bend,
how to sway and say
i, i think i understand
what all this fighting is for,
and i just want you to understand
i'm not angry anymore.
no, i'm not angry anymore.
For more information about Ani Difranco visit her official website, here.
Reveling - Ani Difranco - KCRW Radio - Morning Becomes Eclectic - 3-7-2001
you were so in love
that it was all you could talk about
and i think i felt a little left out
you were on cloud 9 all the time
while i was leveling
i was wringing my hands and you were reveling
but then why shouldn't you?
it was such a beautiful thing to do
would that i could get me some
of your yum yum delirium
i could level off the ground that we stand on
but with you down on bended knee
always looking up at me
that feeling of standing up together is gone
and though i love you through all time and space
my love always seems to take second place
you were so in love
that it was all you could talk about
and i think i felt a little left out
you were on cloud 9 all the time
while i was leveling
i was wringing my hands and you were reveling
but then why shouldn't you?
it was such a beautiful thing to do
For more information visit the official Ani Difranco website, here.
life in the circus ain't easy
but the folks on the outside don't know
the tent goes up and the tent comes down
and all that they see is the show
and the ladies on the horses look so pretty
and the lions are lookin real mad
and some of the clowns are happy
and some of the clowns are sad
but underneath
there's another expression
that the makeup isn't making
life under the big top
it's about freedom
it's about faking
there's an art to the laughter
there's a science
and there's a lot of love and compliance
welcome to the freakshow
here we go...
we live to hear the slack-jawed gasping
we live under a halo of held breath
and when the children raise up a giant shield
of laughter, it's like they're fending off death
and we can make something bigger
than any one of us alone
and then the clowns will take off their makeup
and the people will go home
but life on the ouside ain't easy
no sequins, no elephants
no parading around
oh the circus comes
and the circus goes
and they're stuck in this fucking town
you need a lot of love and compliance
welcome to the freakshow
here we go
For more information on Ani Difranco visit the official website here.
I first learned of Misty Copeland in high school. I danced at Rosalie and Alva's School of Ballet and a particular friend of mine danced at San Pedro Dance Center. My friend informed me of a young girl named Misty whom she danced with and who apparently attended San Pedro High School along with us. Although, I didn't know Misty, because I had learned of who she was, I began to take notice of the praise she received from news articles.
Copeland joined the American Ballet Theater at the age of 18. She began dancing at the age of 13. She was considered a prodigy and soon became an award winning dancer.
A new TV series, “A Day in the Life” recently featured Misty Copeland. Copeland is currently the only Black soloist at ABT and was for eleven years the only Black woman in the company. In the episode Copeland discusses how Black dancers are often encouraged to choose modern or contemporary dance rather than classical as they are more likely to be accepted in that arena of dance.
Also, in the episode Copeland visits a Boys and Girls Club to spend time with a class of Black ballet students. Copeland talks about how she hopes to be a role model to young kids of color.
In 2009, Copeland was invited to film a music video with Prince, for his "Crimson and Clover" cover from his 2009 album Lotusflower. Prince also invited Copeland to perform with him on some dates during his Welcome 2 America tour.
It is evident that Prince has an admiration for the craft that is ballet. Earlier this year Prince donated $250,000 to ABT.
Prince and Misty Copeland on Lopez Tonight
And who can forget when Prince allowed the Joffrey Ballet to perform to his music. The show was called Billboards and began in 1993.
Billboards - The Joffrey Ballet with the Music of Prince
Because of Copeland's amazing talent she's been presented with a lot of opportunities. She's also been presented with challenges. She began dancing at 13 which for some is considered a late start; he is noted as having a curvy body rather than a waif thin frame, and she is a black woman living within a racist society.
Although, Copeland has recognized this as a barrier, In a March, 2011 interview with Black Voices, she also admitted that her light brown skin may have given her an edge.
"I’ve seen so many talented black women who come in with the perfect physique and still not get into this company or another one. I think it’s probably about timing as well but it definitely may have been because they were too dark. I think I was lucky to get in when I did and maybe they felt that position was filled.
A young black girl came into the company, and she’s fair-skinned like me. We have yet to see a dark-skinned woman come into the company. It’s a very touchy subject in general."
In a March, 2011 article for Postbourgie, she asserted that, “Some black women give up and don’t do classical ballet dance” said Copeland in the BV interview “I want them to know that times are changing. The more people we have auditioning, they can’t deny talent.”
Anaheim Ballet Special features Misty Copeland of American Ballet Theatre
One thing is for certain. Misty Copeland inspires. She is very good at what she does, she seems to have a good head on her shoulders, and I admire her greatly.
To learn more about Misty Copeland visit her official website here.
To visit the official Misty Copeland facebook page, click here.
Today marks the 20th Anniversary of Nirvana's Nevermind album.
The music is remarkable and has affected the lives of so many in an equally remarkable way. The album cover is noted and remembered for the image of a naked boy swimming after a one dollar bill.
That baby is all grown up and believe it or not it has a name.
Spencer Kenneth Royce Elden was born on January 7th, 1991. Elden's parents Renata and Rick, were paid $200 in return for the picture.
In 2001, the year that marked the 10th anniversary of Nevermind, Elden recreated the image for Rolling Stone Magazine. As you can see, in this photo, Elden is no longer wearing his birthday suit. Elden is ten years old in this shot.
Elden once again recreated the image for Rolling Stone magazine in 2008 at the age of 17.
Elden is now 20 years of age and has landed himself another sweet gig. He is working for OBEY. For those of you who are unaware, OBEY is a project created by street artist Shepard Fairey.
Take a look at the world in which Elden is lucky enough to step into.
Fairey is probably most known for his Andre the Giant stickers. The stickers first emerged in 1989 when Fairey would post the stickers in random public places.
Sometimes the stickers would have an image but no text and sometimes the sticker would read, "Andre the Giant Has a Posse" or "Obey Giant".
Fairey explains the sticker's purpose on his website.
The OBEY sticker campaign can be explained as an experiment in Phenomenology. Heidegger describes Phenomenology as “the process of letting things manifest themselves.” Phenomenology attempts to enable people to see clearly something that is right before their eyes but obscured; things that are so taken for granted that they are muted by abstract observation.
The FIRST AIM OF PHENOMENOLOGY is to reawaken a sense of wonder about one’s environment. The OBEY sticker attempts to stimulate curiosity and bring people to question both the sticker and their relationship with their surroundings. Because people are not used to seeing advertisements or propaganda for which the product or motive is not obvious, frequent and novel encounters with the sticker provoke thought and possible frustration, nevertheless revitalizing the viewer’s perception and attention to detail. The sticker has no meaning but exists only to cause people to react, to contemplate and search for meaning in the sticker. Because OBEY has no actual meaning, the various reactions and interpretations of those who view it reflect their personality and the nature of their sensibilities.
If you do not recognize the OBEY sticker you may recognize the Barack Obama posters which Fairey created with Obama's permission.
Fairey is a big figure in the street art world and is often revered as a pioneer. Watch the below 2010 interview with Spencer Elden. Here he explains how the Nevermind photo came about and he discusses his current projects and futher aspirations.
For more information about Spencer Elden visit his blog page, Vampires One Day.
For more information about Shepard Fairey visit the official website, Obey Giant.
It's one of those things that you can't believe it actually exists. I'm assuming the creators of this costume knew that their product would ruffle some feathers. Well, I'm practically molting.
The above costume is from Trick R Treat Costumes
The woman in the above photo is quite thin but from where I'm standing she doesn't appear to be anorexic. If she were anorexic she certainly would not be able to maintain breasts like this posing model. Although, I think it's safe to say that the breasts of this woman are either surgically enhanced or photo shopped.
If you search the internet for "Ana and Mia" you will see a list of pro ANArexia and BuliMIA websites. These sites are designed by those who discuss tips and "THINspiration" to further one's eating disorder (Although, now a days there are many websites out there disguised as Ana and Mia sites but are actually sites that attempt to steer women and men towards recovery).
There are enough socialized pressures which can trigger and affect those with eating disorders. Now, Trick R Treat costumes has come up with the idea of marketing, glorifying and simutaenously poking fun at the complexity that is an eating disorder.
Change.org had set up a petition which demanded that HalloweenStore.com remove the costume from their shelves. I visited the site so that I too could sign the petition but once I reached the site I was surpised to find that there was no need.
In less than 5 hours, the petition succeeded. A representative of HalloweenStore.com informed dana SPARKdirector, Petition Organizer, "I have removed the costume Anna Rexia from my store and will never sell it again."
Good work to all those who signed the petition!
The costume has been sold elsewhere but due to the controversy the costume continues to be pulled off the shelves.
Feast your eyes on this candy cane tea infuser. The candy cane is meant to be filled with loose leaf tea. Hook the candy cane on the edge of a tea cup and you are good to go!
This item won't be available until November. It will be sold for $12.99 atModcloth.
Well, after all I am about to say, ultimately it will be your decision. Thank you in advance for the willingness to read my thoughts on this subject.
“Sex-Positive”. What does this mean to you? Someone who is positive about sex is probably the easy, lazy, even humorous answer.
In the feminist community, which I am a part of, I have found that Sex-Positive is often used to glorify the views of liberal feminists while opposing those of radical feminists. I haven’t completely concluded as to where I sit, but I have come to find that when it comes to sexual matters I land on the radical side of the fence.
I call myself an anti-pornography feminist. It is a movement which got its start in the 80s. It hasn’t been around all that long. As a Progressive Christian and a feminist I am grateful to the feminist anti-porn movement as it is a movement that is devoid of religious persuasion. In my experience I have come across many a Christian and many who belong to various sects of Christianity who adamantly oppose pornography. While this is all fine and good, I have yet to hear a concrete argument which religious and non-religious folk can relate to.
I am a blogger and a blog follower and time and time again I have read articles which deny anti-porn feminists the label of sex-positive. I don’t know of any feminist who is anti-sex. In fact if I were anti-sex and anti-intimacy I wouldn’t be a feminist. As a woman I am well aware that patriarchy can enter the bedroom. Or the kitchen table, the back seat of the family car, public restroom, elevator, wherever.
Unless you have conservative views, for many, the word “liberal” signifies freedom. Within feminism liberal can mean the same thing but to some lib fems, radical might signify “crazy”, “uptight”, or “WRONG”.
Even so, I find it painful when a feminist refers to another feminist as someone who is not sex-positive.
Feminists fight hard against patriarchy and the wedge that often separates men and women. We take a step backwards when we pit one sect of feminism against another. We are a feminist collective and although our views may differ from time to time we want the same things. Equality, love and progress.
When a feminist refers to another feminist as someone who is "sex-negative" we have immediately created division.
Within the English lexicon we’ve come up with plenty of simplistic terms which are meant to encompass something larger. It is a tireless way to explain complex concepts. While often helpful, this language has also proven itself to be dangerous. Sex-positive and sex-negative are two prime examples.
If we are to continue to use the words Sex-positive, it is important to understand that it is inclusive of many things. And if I truly do not fit the liberal feminist definition, this does not mean that I am of conservative ilk. It seems so often that it is only liberalism that is equated with open mindedness and radicalism is not.
When I refer to the umbrella of politics which I subscribe to, I call myself liberal. But every now and then I find myself sitting across from someone, who comes from liberal politics, who has the preconceived notion that liberalism is a concept in which we are to accept anything that comes our way. In other words, the idea that there are no absolutes. I think liberals often shy away from absolutes. We shy away from words such as “bad” or “wrong” because if we use them we are no longer considered to be open minded. It is unfortunate.
If I were to say that pornography is bad or wrong this would be accurate, but ultimately, bad and wrong are too simplistic. What I know to be true is that I am against the concept of men and women purchasing and selling the bodies of men and women. I am against the idea that women in particular should ever be presented and therefore perceived as play things, whose sole purpose is to do whatever it is a man wants them to do.
I am not interested in policing the fantasies of others nor am I interested in censorship. Cracking down on the strip clubs, pulling Playboy off the shelves or arresting street sex workers is not a solution to anything. I am interested, however, in educating others and continuing to educate myself.
Although, I disagree with the pro-porn feminist stance, I do not shame those who utilize porn. I find porn dangerous and unhealthy, yes. I believe that porn promotes the myth of male weakness – the idea that men simply cannot help themselves and therefore must view pornography. I believe the porn industry skips over the question of whether the women who willingly take part in sex work are doing so freely or are doing so because they are submitting to the promise of glory, attention, fleeting validation and fame. There is no room for conscience when there is so much money to be made. That is the power of patriarchy.
That being said, there is a difference between judging or discerning and shaming. We make judgments every day, however, there are many who will tell you that if we are to be truly enlightened we should not judge. We judge when we make distinctions between what we want and do not want, what we favor and do not favor. To shame is to view someone as less than who you are. To shame is to view one condescendingly. I do not shame.
For the purpose of this post I looked up the word “Judgment” and the word “Shame” in the dictionary.
Judgment: The ability to judge, make a decision, or form an opinion objectively, authoritatively, and wisely, especially in matters affecting action; good sense; discretion: a man of sound judgment.
Shame: The painful feeling arising from the consciousness of something dishonorable, improper, ridiculous, etc., done by oneself or another: She was overcome with shame.
They are different. Different words, different definitions.
I can understand rebellion against anything that seems to touch upon sexual repression, as women in particular have been repressed for ions. Throughout history/herstory women have received mixed signals. Depending on the culture and time, we have been told that sex is dirty and therefore women cannot explore desire or express desire. Heterosexual women have been told that their job is to please men. Playboy, Maxim, GQ and other “Men’s interest” magazines, tell men that women are meant to be captured and then conquered. “Women’s Interest” magazines such as Cosmopolitan, Seventeen, Vogue and others, tell women that our job is to dress to impress, surgically enhance to impress, and learn the latest sex tips in order to keep our men interested.
So, when I listen to a pro-pornography feminist speak about a woman’s agency and the ability to decide whether porn is healthy or not, I’d like to think that I understand where they are coming from. We feminists do not want to be told what to do. We’ve been told what to do long enough.
I am not telling women what to do. I am however, expressing an opinion about what I consider to be healthy or not healthy. If a pro-porn feminist does not care to listen to what I have to say, that is alright.
An argument that I’ve read repeatedly in articles about pornography written by pro-porn feminists, is that anti-porn feminists find it difficult or impossible to celebrate a woman’s sexual desire and choices and decisions, when found to be challenging, bizarre, offensive, or confusing.
Sometimes, yes. But hear this. I have read many an article in which a pro-porn author, who in the midst of their frustration and passion, dismisses the fact that we anti-porn folks aren’t griping because we want to shut down sex and sexuality. The reason we address that which we find challenging, bizarre, offensive or confusing is because we believe that the buying and selling of sex and sexual beings is not only unhealthy (to put it simply) but it is a part of a larger consumerist system that perpetuates the idea that women are not as fully whole as men, not worthy of respect as men are, and not as intelligent or assertive as men are being that their only role is to serve and please. Within the varieties of pornography women are dumbed down as porn promotes the idea that women are always ready, always willing and always wanting more.
So, if you feel that pornography (be it film, magazines, strip clubs, prostitutes) is some how helpful to you and/or to your relationship, it is important to recognize other negative implications.
An important question, which has conjured much debate, is whether a pro-porn female can possess true agency being that we are saturated with patriarchal views which insist that pornography is something to relish and consume.
If women are using free agency to make the decision to view porn, participate in porn, or promote porn, it is important to consider the consequences of that involvement.
I have spent a lot of time listening and considering arguments from both sides of the fence. I have also spent time confronting and sometimes dodging the accusation that I am “hung-up” on my own issues or rather that I am “sex-negative.” My lack of understanding means that I find a pro-porn stance illogical. It does not mean that I am ignorant aka without knowledge.
Another bothersome and inaccurate association with anti-pornography stances, is the belief that rejecting porn some how equates to an embrace of “vanilla sex”. I've heard this argument over and over and I find it to be nonsensical.
But what exactly IS vanilla sex? We’ve all heard the phrase, “Plain old vanilla”, right? My understanding is that Vanilla sex is meant to suggest boring sex, “innocent” (whatever that really means) sex, unexciting sex, missionary only sex. There is a stigma against anti-porn folks. One that says we are not sexual, we are frigid, cold and distant, or we just lay there like bib lettuce. Yes, I've been exposed to all of these descriptions.
What about anti-porn feminist men? They do exist, you know. Are they also frigid and cold? Do they also engage in boring and innocent sex practices?
Patriarchy rears its ugly head here. It is women who are usually and so quickly pegged as devoid of sexuality when it comes to any opposition or assertion against mainstream ideas. Even so, men too can be verbally stripped of their sexuality and deemed “weak” if they do not live up to the dominating practices of other men.
Since when is viewing and appreciating pornography a prerequisite for anything? Since when does disapproval of porn negate a person’s genuine interest in sex?
The debate over sex-positivity is a weak one. As an anti-porn feminist I can look a pro-porn feminist in the eye and confidently express my belief that they are pro-sex and sex-positive. Lately, it seems that the reverse is not true.
Michael Alig, often referred to as King of the Club Kids is scheduled for prison release this November. As interesting as Alig's history is, it is important for us to understand that the man took a life and THAT is why he has been away for so long. Sometimes it is the most obvious that escapes us.
Michael Alig was born in April 29th 1966 in the town of South Bend, Indiana. In the late 80s Alig moved to New York, began promoting parties and proclaimed that he was the original club kid. He and his friend James St. James created lavish costumes for themselves and attended club parties with their fellow club goers.
In 1996 Alig was convicted of the murder a fellow friend and drug dealer, "Angel" aka Andre Melenedez. The two disputed over a drug dept. That is the short version.
The book was originally titled Disco Bloodbath but was later changed to coincide with the adapted motion picture film. I was eager to see the film and not only because the book is so well written but because the book cover featured notable actors. I recognized Macaulay Culkin (Home Alone) as Michael Alig, Wilder Valderama (That 70s Show) as Dj Keoki and Wilson Cruz (My So-Called Life, Rent) as Angel.
As I watched the film I was joyed to see other notable actors, all who did a splendid job. Seth Green as James St. James, (if you ask me if was Green who stole the show in this film) Chloe Sevigny as Gitsie, Natasha Lyonne as Brooke, Marilyn Manson as Christina, Dylan McDermott as Peter Gaiten and John Stamos as talk show host.
Party Monster Trailer
After having watched the film I learned that a documentary existed. Party Monster: The Shockumentary was released in 1999 and was screened at the Sundance Film Festival in 1998.
After having watched Party Monster the movie, I found it very interesting to see the real people behind the portrayed characters.
Below is the trailer for Party Monster: The Shockumentary. Fair warning. If you do not wish to witness naked bodies and drug use, stay clear of this trailer.
Party Monster: The Shockumentary Trailer
So, yes the story is fascinating. I cannot dispute that. My issue is that Alig is highly revered despite his act of murder.
The way it went down is this. Alig and his friend and club goer, Robert "Freeze" Riggs murdered Angel Melendez after an argument over a long-standing drug debt. According to Riggs he hit Melendez three times on the head. Alig then grabbed a pillow and attempted to smother him Melendez. Melendez was unconscious and Alig injected Melendez with Drano cleaning liquid. Alig also poured Drano down Melendez's throat and duct-taped his mouth closed. Alig and Riggs didn't know what to do with the body so they put it in a bath tub filled with ice in order to keep it from rotting. After a few days the body began to smell. Alig injected himself with heroin and then cut the legs off the corpse, put them in a garbage bag, then stuffed the rest in a box. The corpse was then thrown into the Hudson River.
According to the Michael Alig blog, Alig is scheduled for release this November and a new documentary about Alig has been made. The release date is unknown however, Glory Daze: The Life and Times of Michael Alig, not only rehashes the events but also reveals recent interview footage of Alig in prison. To watch the trailer click here.
In addition to Alig's documentary, another important documentary film entitled Limelight is scheduled to screen in limited theaters tomorrow, September 23rd. The film tells the story of Peter Gatien and his New York club Limelight. Alig is featured in the film as well as others who have a history with Limelight.
Limelight - Documentary Trailer
Alig's release begs the obvious question - is fourteen years of lock-up enough? Has Alig reformed? Alig presented himself as a self-absorbed individual. In the motion picture film Party Monster, the notion that Alig and others were superficial and attention seeking was of mention. Is Alig still?
I whole heartedly believe that people can reform. Whether Alig has reformed, we may never know. The upcoming documentary may give us some insight however, a film is just a film. I relish documentary films but I acknowledge that an hour and a half to two hour film is merely a glimpse into the life of another.
Alig has a huge following. While this is by no means shocking, it causes me to scratch my head. By following I am not referring to those interested in his story as I am, but those who support him in a way that disregards his actions. The Michael Alig blog features a calendar which marks which days Alig is available for visits inside the Southport Correctional Facility in Pine City, New York. An address is available for those who would like to write Alig. According to the website Alig will write back.
The author of the blogsite, Lovepurple, asks for magazines and other reading material to be sent to the prison as well as thoughts and prayers. At one point positive thoughts to be sent Alig's way were request as the air conditioning in Alig's cell was no longer working during a 100 degree heatwave.
Lovepurple claims to be a friend if Alig's. This person met Alig through written letters and personal visits. Lovepurple reports that they provide Alig with emotional support, food, and art supplies. Lovepurple has specified that Alig has never asked for money or other donations however, Alig does receive many comforts from friends and aquaintences.
I do not doubt that prison is a terrible place to be. I do not doubt that Alig has struggled and has had plenty of time to think about his life and the life he took.
Michael Alig and James St. James
Being that Alig has taken advantage of every opportunity to speak about his life as a Club Kid and the fabulousness that is he, I do not doubt that we will hear more from Alig upon his release.
Yes, Alig's story is fascinating but I find Alig the person to be even more so. A man who was capable of murder. Is he still?
Angel may you rest in peace.
Andre "Angel" Melendez May 1, 1971 - March 17, 1996
I believe story telling is an art form and blogging is a medium in which to share stories and ideas. Within this blog I hope to cover a spectrum of topics. From the serious to the silly. Here you will read my views and inquiries about subjects such as feminism, other various socio-political issues, psychology, spirituality, sexuality, and general interests such as film, art and music. You will also be exposed to my obsession with cupcakes, tea, books, Hello Kitty, and quirky day to day journeys. I enjoy learning from others as I am constantly attempting to introspect, grow and evolve. During this process I will be jotting down musings on this blog. Pull up a comfy chair and a spot of tea and join me!
