Regardless of the taboo nature behind it, almost everyone has sex, and whether or not you had the ‘birds and bees’ conversation with your parents, those who have sex, have questions.
On Thursday October 1st, the Panhellenic organization at James Madison University (JMU) hosted its annual ‘Sex in the Dark’ event. One that provided students with a safe place to ask anonymous questions on a topic they might not speak so comfortably about on a regular basis. Even more important, they have two experts ready to answer any question sent their way. This unique event creates an environment where curiosity can thrive and stigmas around sex are challenged.
The blackout room of Wilson’s auditorium slowly filled with women and men coming to explore their own sexual activity and relationships. Chatter filled the auditorium, students with unspoken truths sat patiently waiting for the event to start. Slowly each seat filled with someone wearing a glow in the dark necklace, the pop music playing slowly died down– The event was about to begin.
To start with the obvious– SEX IS NATURAL. And you shouldn’t feel bad for having it, or for choosing not to. You also shouldn’t feel stupid or behind your peers for having questions about a subject everyone encounters but is too uncomfortable to talk about. This is why events such as ‘Sex in the Dark’ are so important to implement everywhere. In a world where the sexual education we got in highschool and middle school often falls short, platforms like ‘Sex in the Dark’ create change and break the awkwardness of these crucial conversations. Attendees are encouraged to ask questions that they might not be able to ask anyone else. From concerns about emotional intimacy to wondering how big is too big, no topics are off limits. Which empowers students to voice their concerns and seek information in a judgment free zone.
One of the best features of the ‘Sex in the Dark’ event, was the presence and knowledge of the speakers, who willingly tackled any questions no matter how silly or unspoken it seemed. These professionals not only provide facts, but also make students feel comfortable with a great sense of humor, the entire event was filled with laughter until the end. By addressing misconceptions and stigmas with a smile and in a bit silly tone, they equip attendees with accurate information and the tools they need to actively make informed decisions regarding their sexual activity.
In a society that often shies away from having conversations about sex, its insanely important to create spaces where these discussions can happen safely. Events like ‘Sex in the Dark’ not only provide that space to normalize the conversation about sex, but also provide students with essential information to take into their sexual activity. As the event wrapped up, students didn’t just leave with answers, but a sense of community that questions sex as much as they do. Thursday was a reminder– we are not alone in our questioning, sexual health is an ongoing journey of discovery and understanding, and its the most human experience.
The ‘Sex in the Dark’ event serves as a catalyst for conversations about sex. We need to break the stigma surrounding sex, everyone thinks about it, it’s far past time we started talking about it in the light.
ShoutOut! James Madison University 