2016: Edition 10

VOLUME 75 | EDITION 10

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13 September 2016

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The Gender and Sex Edition, in Partnership With The Red Wings Project

Image: Yogi Shoba

How to get T Involved The Red Wings Project Michaela Findeis

here numerous ways in which you can get involved with The Red Wings Project by heading over to their website.

The first, and easiest way to get involved is to sign their petition. The

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t’s no secret how horrible periods can be — waking up in the morning to find your underwear stained with blood; stomach aches, back aches, headaches (everywhere aches); being grumpy; being hungry all the time and crying about the smallest things. Most of us are lucky enough to be able to take a painkiller and eat some chocolate to dull the pain of what feels like our uterus trying to eat up our insides. But what about the women who don’t have that privilege?

What about the women that don’t have access to sanitary pads and tampons, let alone painkillers and chocolate? Throughout South Africa, there are a number of young women who cannot even go to school on days when they are on their period because of their lack of sanitary products. Some young girls get their period for the first time and think that they are sick or dying because

petition serves two purposes. First, it calls for the government to subsidise sanitary products for underpriviliged women. Secondly, it calls for the ‘Tampon Tax’ to be removed. Sanitary products ARE NOT luxury items.

Once a month, grab some friends and head off to the shop. Buy a pack of pads and

drop it off at your nearest drop off point.

Sign up to become a volunteer and assist with pad drives and educating young women about sanitation and menstruation.

If everyone helps out just a little a bit, a massive difference will be made. Get involved.

they have not been educated about menstruation and what changes happen in their body.

This is why The Red Wings Project is important. The initiative looks at the issue of the lack of sanitation for women in South Africa. It is focused on underprivileged or disadvantaged women who do not have access to proper sanitary products or have not received adequate information about sanitation.

The Red Wings Project tries to: Create more awareness around the lack of sanitation for a large number of women in South Africa Increase the access to sanitary products for disadvantaged women Collect and donate sanitary products to those in need Eradicate the taboos of women feeling humiliated when they are on their menstrual cycle.

Call out policy makers to make sanitary products available to underprivileged women Consolidate all sanitation distribution across the country into a system of fair and equal distribution

to all areas Educate women about the correct disposal of used sanitary products and the importance of this.

If condoms are given out freely everywhere, why aren’t pads or tampons? Periods are something that women have no control over and sanitary products are a necessity.

These products are also expensive, meaning that underprivileged women often cannot afford these essential items.

Menstruation and sanitation is something that needs to be spoken about more openly and the stigma around it needs to be removed. It is a natural process that all women go through and we should not be embarrassed by it.

Visit The Red Wings Project website on www.redwingsproject. com/ and you can sign up to donate sanitary products, sign the petition to remove tax on sanitary products, and sign up for the newsletter to keep updated as to how you can help this initiative.

VARSITY, the official student newspaper since 1942, is committed to the principles of equality and democracy.

Get Rid of the

Bloody Tax

Filipp Stoliarov.

L

et’s make one thing clear, the government, for all its wellto-do intentions and attempts at progressive social delivery, occasionally runs into conflict with libertarian principles. Let me explain. You earn money and the government is entitled to a share.

This comes in either direct or indirect taxes from your income, VAT or for any of our future CEO's, the dreaded profit tax. Fair enough — you use their water, electricity and any other services essential to your well-being and that of your fellow national compatriots.

But, for argument and analogies sake, let’s say one normal day you're walking on campus and you feel that sudden bathroom rush (one too many coffees from those lastminute study sessions). As you run towards the nearest sign and find the sacred bathroom door... bam!

Entry fee. Ugh, annoying, but fair enough, cleaning and looking after UCT students is a daunting enough task. As you place your coin through the door, nearly bursting at the seams, you enter the bathroom, with thoughts of gushing rivers and every

gutter in the city after those sudden Cape Town rains... only to find the cubical door demanding another fee.

Your thoughts of anger and anarchy towards this cubicle fee are only partially misplaced by the pressure of those converted coffees. Still, you cough up and open the toilet door only to see sacrilege itself! The lid closed with yet another coin machine demanding more, with a sign on it, this time just cruelly saying, ‘Like you have choice? Pay up!’

Is this sounding like something out of a nightmare?

Unfortunately, lucid pee dreams aside, this doesn't even begin to deal with the scale of absurdity that is found within what is informally referred to as the 'Tampon Tax.’ This form of taxation is technically referring to the cost, availability and distribution of any sanitary products that womyn require. In this mixed-market society of ours, if you need or want, you pay. But this doesn't explain why the government sponsors and distributes free condoms. If the state can provide a free & male-orientated product that is centred around sexual protection, then where are the sanitary products that any individual with a uterus

needs on a monthly basis! The consequences of this malpractice is that up to 3.5 million girls miss school every month as they are unable to afford or access the pads or tampons they need. The economic, social & personal ramifications of such statistics speaks for itself.

Perhaps the triple-layered bathroomfee seems a bit less crazy when the aforementioned is the reality we find ourselves in.

In order to address this crisis, some corporations such as Dischem, Lillets & Kotex collect & donate sanitary products on a monthly basis. However, these companies also make their money from these products. If we are to progress as a society than we have to address each and every person's needs, not just a certain demographics' sexual desire. The government needs to step up and subsidise & sponsor free sanitary products as well as ensure that they are distributed nationwide; schools, libraries, public bathrooms etc. We need to step up. Make sure that the culture around basic & free provisions includes any and all sanitary products essential to healthy human well-being and dignity. There is no arguing that. Period.

Image: Taahirah Abrahams

Shh... It’s a Tampon

Image: Bryan Calabro

Yogi Shoba

tampons. Unless, some dark twist of fate occurred this is definitely untrue. STIs can be contracted during unprotected sex (or protected sex in some cases), and again, using a tampon does not equate to having sexual intercourse with a piece of cotton.

T

he tampon is probably the most controversial piece of material known to mankind. The tiny bloodsoaking device has been around for centuries (initially thought to be invented by the Ancient Egyptians) and started its evolutionary journey as a scratchy cylindrical object made from papyrus leaves.

In 1929, a physician named Earle Haas, invented the modern tampon. He attached a string to a tightly bound piece of absorbent cotton and coupled it with an applicator tube to keep the tampon clean upon insertion.

The tampon was invented as an alternative to bulky and often uncomfortable pads, but unlike the pad, it is inserted into a woman’s most intimate of intimates.

There’s something about an object venturing ‘up there’ for non-sexual purposes, that continues to cause a proverbial upset in the belly of modern society.

For example, there is the belief that using a tampon can take away your virginity. This belief stems from age-old practices of virginity

‘getting it on’ with their tampons

Image: Enrique Alonso testing which are still a staple in various cultures. Virginity testing usually involves examining the vagina for the presence of an ‘intact’ hymen. The intact hymen indicates that the girl or woman has not engaged in penis-in-vagina sexual intercourse.

Firstly, I doubt that women are ‘getting it on’ with their tampons (but if they are, well…) and secondly, virginity

is an exceptionally complex phenomenon and cannot be placed in such a simplistic box. There

culture of silence and invisibility is also the belief that a woman can contract an STI from using

The tampon itself has become part and parcel to a culture of silence and invisibility with regards to menstruation. Tampon companies are developing smaller, sleeker tampons that are more and more ‘discreet’ so women can hide the fact that they bleed once a month. The idea isn’t for women to shout from the rooftops that they’re on their period, the idea is that they shouldn’t feel ashamed of the fact that they are.

In addition, the misinformation surrounding tampons and the

female body has bred a lot of fear and paranoia around their use. Another example is the belief that one has to remove their tampon in order to urinate.

There are in fact, two separate holes from which menstrual blood and urine leave the body: menstrual blood exits from the vagina and urine escapes from a hole just above it called the urethra. There’s also the fear that a tampon will get stuck in your vagina. This does happen, but it’s highly unlikely. There is, of course, a string which you can gently pull and the tampon will come sliding out. It wouldn’t be a bad idea to explore one’s own body and discover what they look like down there and how everything works.

Many of the myths surrounding tampons can be busted if healthy and active engagement is made regarding menstruation. Silence is cause for suffering and women have suffered quite enough. Let’s lift the taboos on menstruation, let’s lift the taboos on tampons.

Let’s talk about sex, baby...2

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VOLUME 75 | EDITION 10

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SRC Elections Suspended Indefintely

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IN THIS ISSUE

Problem Candidates PAGE 2

Zoe Postman and Michaela Findeis On Tuesday, September 6, the 2016 Election Commission released a statement announcing that SRC elections will be suspended indefinitely. It is unclear when the suspension will be lifted or what procedure will be followed should an election not take place by October 31, as there is no precedent for this situation.

The suspension was implemented, given that Masixole Mlandu, one of the candidates has an interdict against him, which prohibits his presence on campus. The reasoning behind the decision to suspend the elections, according to the statement, is that this infringes on their ability to meet its mandate to provide free and fair elections for all students. This is based on the fact that a free and fair election cannot be guaranteed if all candidates do not have equal access to students, due to which the interdicted candidate would be at a disadvantage.

The University placed an interdict against Mlandu, along with four other students, due to their alleged involvement in illegal activities, such as the burning of UCT property, during the #Shackville protests on campus earlier this year. Despite

the interdict, the 2016 Election Commission confirmed Mlandu as a valid candidate to run for SRC on August 26th.

Roger Adams, the Chief Electoral Officer, said, ‘According to sections 44 of the Election Regulations, anyone can be confirmed as a valid candidate if they are registered at UCT for at least one semester. Mr Mlandu fulfills these criteria and therefore he is a valid candidate in terms of UCT rules.’ He further clarified that ‘the enforcement of the interdict that prevents Mr Mlandu from coming unto campus, to put up posters, for instance, is the prerogative of UCT management and not the Election Commission.’

The Election Commission further explained that they are now unable to provide all candidates with equal campaigning opportunities as all election campaign activities take place on campus. They are unable to provide voters with free and equal access to all candidates by moving campaign activities off campus, as they do not have the capacity to ensure the safety of students present at off campus events. Therefore the call to suspend SRC elections had to be made, in order to comply with their mandate and ensure the integrity of the SRC election process.

The Election Commission requested that an exception to Mlandu’s interdict be granted for the duration of the election

campaign, to allow him to freely campaign on campus. This would grant him access to the student body and afford him the same opportunities as the others candidates.

The request was denied, as UCT does not have the ability to grant this request. The interdict is a legal matter, which must be overturned by a court and is therefore an issue that cannot be dealt with or lifted by UCT itself.

The interdict is legally binding and prohibits Mlandu from accessing campus, thus in order to overturn this, the issue will need to be taken to court.

The decision to suspend the elections is not one that was made lightly and is seen by the Election Commission as the only way to maintain the integrity of the process. The suspension applies only to the election and not the substructures of the current SRC. When asked about a new SRC, Adams stated that ‘The current SRC is in office until October 31, so the substructures can proceed as normal until then. At this stage we do not want to preempt whether a new SRC will be in office by 1 November or not.’

It has always been assumed that an election will take place before October 31 and as such, there is currently no precedent in either the regulation or the constitution as for what should

happen, should an election not take place before that date.

The possibility of an interim SRC only occurs if a vote takes place and less than 25% of the registered student body votes. The interim SRC will then come into power and the Election Commission will submit a report to the University Student Affairs Committee, who will in turn submit a recommendation to Council. Council will then determine if the interim SRC can run as the SRC. Chanda Chungu, Deputy Speaker of Student Parliament and one of the students involved in drafting the new SRC Constitution said, ‘This matter will affect students.

Absolutely. Any delay in the SRC elections affects the work required of the SRC on University decisionmaking committees. The SRC represents students on committees such as Council, Senate, the Finance Committee and the Student Affairs committee that decide on fees, the curriculum, residence spaces and other (student) issues. These need student representatives.’

If no election occurs before the current SRC’s term of office, it is Chungu’s view that the Election Commission will propose to the USAC, who will in turn propose to Council that the current SRC continues to hold office until such time as an election takes place. However, this is just a presumption. No clear way forward has been discussed or decided upon yet.

May We Get it On?

PAGE 5

Porn Problems

PAGE 7

Silver Screen

PAGE 10

Sex Personalities

Sexuality in Sport

VARSITY, the official student newspaper since 1942, is committed to the principles of equality and democracy.

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13 September 2016 | V75 E 10 | Page 2

News

Red Wings Donates Pads for Women’s Month

News Bites Yogi Shoba

Yogi Shoba Penny Sparrow Back in Court

Former estate agent Penny Sparrow’s court case for labelling black people ‘monkeys’ in a rant about littered beaches, continued in the Umzinto Magistrate’s Court on Monday. The Sparrow case was the first of a year of outbursts which have landed several people in trouble. Last week, another estate agent, Vicky Momberg, appeared in the Randburg Magistrate’s Court after allegedly uttering racial insults at a black police officer after a smash and grab in Johannesburg.

News 24

Hillary Clinton Diagnosed with Pneumonia

US Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton has been treated for pneumonia, her doctor says, after she took ill at a 9/11 ceremony. Dr Lisa Bardack said she was diagnosed with pneumonia on Friday and given antibiotics, but had become dehydrated at the New York event. Her Republican opponents have questioned her physical fitness, with the presidential candidate Donald Trump telling supporters last month she ‘lacks the mental and physical stamina’ to serve as president and fight Islamic State militants.

BBC

Mugabe Erects 3.8 metre Statue of Himself

A statue of Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe has been mounted in front of State House in Harare.

The sculpture is reported to be 3.8 metres tall and is made of spring stone. The artist Dominic Benhura reportedly took six months to complete it using a chisel, raspers and sandpaper. Citizens expressed their displeasure on twitter. The 92-year-old leader has recently been facing growing discontent over his rule. Mugabe’s own cadres, war veterans, and several civil society groups have called on him to step down..

ENCA

Two Held for Brutal attacks on Uber Passengers

On July 6, a 64-year-old woman was allegedly attacked by two men hiding in the boot of an Uber vehicle she had ordered in Fourways, north of Johannesburg. According to police investigators, the men assaulted her and took her to a secluded spot, where she was raped and robbed.

On Thursday, September 8, evening, after more than a month of investigation, a man believed to have been involved in both incidents was arrested in Mpumalanga.

On Friday, September 9, night, another suspect was arrested in Germiston..

IOL

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s a part of Women’s month, the Red Wings Project: Cape Town (Red Wings), in partnership with the United Nations Association of South Africa in Stellenbosch (UNASA) and Deloitte, delivered pads and held workshops at both Langa and Matthew Goniwe High Schools on Thursday, September 8 and Friday, September 9.

The partnership was able to raise over R13 000 for pads and received 3 000 pad donations. The studentrun division of the countrywide initiative holds regular pad drives and distributes pads to its partner schools every two months. The Women’s Day drive took place at Stellenbosch University during August and September. Monetary contributions were also made online.

The Red Wings Project Facebook page highlights the premise behind the initiative. ‘Our aims are to create a sustainable future for young individuals, promote dignity and to combat absenteeism.’

According to Kwenza Mncwango, a Bachelor of Business Science student at UCT and the Project

Manager of Red Wings, ‘These two schools were chosen by the Red Wings Project team when we were still establishing ourselves. We partnered with UNASA Stellenbosch for Women’s Month to help us raise enough pads for our September/ October drop off and create more awareness about the project. Jessica Ann Scott, the Human Rights Head of UNASA Stellies, approached Lise van Schoor from Deloitte about helping and getting on board as a sponsor and facilitator for our drop off,’ she said.

Deloitte facilitated the workshops, which were titled #GirlBosses, on both days. According to Lise van Schoor, a Chartered Accountant and Manager at Deloitte Audit Graduate Recruitment, the aim of the workshops was to expose girls to postmatric opportunities and encourage them to pursue these options.

‘We wanted to inspire them with some stories from girl bosses they could relate to. We also wanted to chat to them about the options that are available to them from a financial contribution perspective when they do think about going to university,’ she said.

According to van Schoor, the private sector has a diverse role to play in the area of social responsibility. She went on to say, ‘I think from a private sector perspective, you need to realise that not just money is always the option, but that your time, your innovation, creativity and excitement can also be things that could really assist in changing people’s lives.’

The workshops were also used to introduce girls to Deloitte’s Graduate Program. ‘Globally, Deloitte’s motto is ‘making an impact that matters’.

We recruit about 350 students that start nationwide every year to start their training contract, so at any point in time, I’ve got about 1800 students on my database that we deal with actively, that are signed to come do their training contracts later on at the firm,’ said van Schoor.

Deloitte also offers bursaries to deserving students, van Schoor said, ‘We offer what we call ‘financial contributions’ or bursaries to the students based on a number of different factors.’ These factors include academic performance and financial need.

According to the Red Wings team, there are still a number of challenges that they face when dealing with the schools. ‘We are still at the early stages of our development and I must say, it hasn’t been easy, but I know that with time it will get better. The biggest problem is communication and dealing with management within the schools.

But we have to say, we love the relationship we are building with the girls,’ said Mncwango.

The Red Wings team, believes that no young female should be deprived of an education because of a lack of sanitation. The Red Wings Project is therefore encouraging people to get involved with the initiative.

Mncwango said, ‘If you are passionate about youth and woman empowerment, this initiative should be something dear to you. Send us an e-mail at theredwingsprojectcpt@ gmail.com and we’ll work from there.’

If you are interested in assisting the Red Wings team, you can contact them via social media. Facebook The red wings project cape town Twitter - RedWings_CT.”

Transformation in Residences Zoe Postman On September 7, Leo Marquard Hall was occupied by students protesting patriarchy within the residence. This was as a result of the House Committee interrogations, which had taken place the previous evening. Those attending the interrogations raised issues with three of the candidates, who were deemed to be problematic, and it was demanded that one of the candidates withdraw from the election.

This situation is similar to protests that occurred at the residence last year by the Patriarchy Must Fall Movement. The issues being raised around misogyny, patriarchy, sexism, queerphobia, and transphobia are the same as those raised last year.

Ndodzo Mawela, the current Head Student of Leo Marquard Hall, said that he felt that the seriousness of the situation was adequately conveyed to the current House Committee members from the outgoing committee last year. However, he also noted that the gravity of the situation could not be fully grasped by cisgendered, heterosexual males.

In response to the issues raised last year, Mawela explained that the 2016 House Committee was dedicated to transforming the space from the beginning of the year. This transformation of the residence includes holding inclusivity

workshops for the residence and House Committee and creating a Culture and Transformation Portfolio to better address the issue of transformation within the space.

a platform to highlight these issues Other changes made to the residence, Mawela noted, include putting the Rainbow Flag up in the dining hall, the creation of a netball team, the residence has been degendered, and they have renamed the pub. Despite the changes implemented within the residence over the past year, Mawela says that they are not as transformed as they should be and so certain issues around transformation still arise.

Another residence whose House Committee was problematized during interrogations was Kopano Residence. One member running for House Committee still received votes from other members of the House, despite being problematic issues around the candidate being raised at interrogations.

However, a statement was later released by the incoming House Committee which announced that following a vote taken, it was decided that the member in question was not fit to represent the residence.

Itumeleng Mpofu, the 2016 Head Student of Kopano, said that they hope to make an example out of the candidate who was voted out of House Committee.

Kopano has also taken steps towards transforming the residential space, similar to those of Leo Marquard Hall. Mpofu noted that despite wardens of the residences being problematic at times, their warden was becoming more open to having the necessary discussions.

Although the residences have made strides in their transformative process, Mpofu said that the motion to work together with all of the residences was not passed at the Residence Management Team meetings, as the head students felt that their residences experience different problems and practice different cultures.

It is the hope of both residences that the incoming House Committees continue the work that was started this year and improve on making residences a more inclusive and transformed space.

During the occupation last year, many students told their stories about the discomfort that they had felt in Leo Marquard Hall. People felt that the space was not inclusive enough to accommodate anything other than the traditional sense of ‘brotherhood.’ People also shared stories about being violated in Leo Marquard Hall and not feeling safe

enough to turn to anyone in the residence. They called for urgent transformation of all aspects of the residence.

The occupation provided a platform to highlight these issues within Leo Marquard Hall, as well as allow students to come forward with similar issues they had experienced in other residences. The protests which took place year around residence culture resulted in House Committees realising the need for transformation and inclusion within these spaces.

Image:Jian-Yi Song

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News

13 September 2016 | V75 E 10 | Page 3

Humanities Student Council Candidate Comes Under Fire

Nicole Arends

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n Thursday, September 8th, voting for the 2017 Humanities Student Council officially commenced. One candidate in the running to be elected, Laurent Balt, came under fire when the phrase ‘you called me a whore for talking to guys’ was penned on several of his campaign posters around campus. This comes after claims from an anonymous source that he is misogynistic and has made problematic statements to her in the past.

According to the source, these comments were left on his campaign posters to express her anger at Balt’s candidacy. He is running under the slogan ‘for a more equal faculty.’

The source stated that she was on the school General Knowledge team with Balt who directed inappropriate comments at her during an Interschool’s General Knowledge event. After speaking to a male member of the opposing team, Balt had consequently called her ‘a whore of Babylon.’ The source further stated that at a different General Knowledge event Balt referred to her as ‘the token girl on the team’ and that it would be better if she were a ‘black, disabled lesbian.’ She went on to state, ‘I think that if he wants to run on the basis of a more equal faculty, he has to acknowledge before doing so, that he was a misogynist in high school and incredibly derogatory.’

When asked about the potential way forward, our source stated, ‘I

think there should be a committee which sits when candidates stand for election. There should be a comment period and should any complaints be made (with substantiation) about problematic tendencies, those candidates should face a hearing.

Should there be sufficient evidence of problematic tendencies, they should be barred from the election.’

At present, the criteria that makes a candidate eligible to run is that they are a registered student at the university for at least one semester and have no sentences prohibiting the nominee from holding student office.

This is confirmed via the University Student Disciplinary Tribunal.

‘feel entitled enough to slut shem them’ The source also went on to say that Laurent did apologise to her via Facebook Messenger and had also posted an apology on his Facebook page. However, she felt it was not sufficient. She stated, ‘I’m not friends with him on Facebook, I couldn’t see it – it’s only visible to his Facebook friends whom it could be assumed are already in support of him. That’s not visible to the public, I don’t think it’s adequate for him to just post an apology to his Facebook friends. I think that Laurent should accept that these tendencies make him unfit to run for a position in which he will represent women. I think if he wants to run he needs to provide evidence

not just that he has changed but that he has taken active steps himself to change, such as attending talks on gender-based violence.’

Balt was contacted for his response and stated, ‘I can attest that I don’t specifically remember the events mentioned - this said I see no reason not to believe the woman in question (something which happens far too often). I no doubt said these things in an attempt to be humorous – it has taken the political awakening that is university for me to better witness the pain suffered by othered groups or those discriminated against by the system, and to understand why humour relating to these identities is both problematic and harmful. I don’t wish to attempt to defend what I did in high school, as I now find it indefensible.’

Balt will continue in the running for Humanities Student Council and noted that he believes in change, and no longer holds many of the positions he did before university.

He noted, ‘My practical politics have become increasingly conscious of social justice issues. I understand that these comments can be harmful to people and I deeply regret that.’

He went on to say, ‘I think personal testimony from those who know me would attest that I’m not a misogynist or patriarchal. In terms of my platform, it is explicitly targeted at the correction of inequalities arising from financial disparity – I am committed to equality in every aspect.’

Although the current Humanities Student Council takes these claims very seriously they remain impartial

to the process of candidate selection and campaigning. It remains up to the voting constituency to either elect or not elect the candidate.

Priyanka Naidoo, Secretary of the current Humanities Student Council stated, ‘This specific candidate’s comments relate to institutionalised sexism and also male entitlement, where people feel the need to police womxn’s[sic] agency and feel entitled enough to slut-shame them.’

She further explained, ‘This is symptomatic of the society that we live in where rape culture is so engrained into our communities and we have normalised this type of behaviour. I can 100% say that this candidate is not the only person who hold such views and if we are to change this patriarchal culture we need to ensure that our student representatives are accountable and willing to unlearn in order to fight institutional patriarchy.’

Image: Jain-Yi Song

Fees Commission Disrupted

Image: Fees Must Fall Western Cape

Zoe Postman and Michaela Findeis

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n Tuesday, 6 September, a meeting was held at Centre for the Book where Vice-Chancellor Dr Max Price intended to present on the feasibility of free education for UCT. Representatives from various organisations, such as the University of Western Cape, Equal Education, and the National Research Foundation, presented their views and ideas at the Commission of Inquiry Into Higher Education and Training (Fees Commission). Dr

Price was presenting suggestions on how to achieve the 0% increase in 2017, as well as the feasibility of free education.

Following Price’s presentation the proceedings of the Fees Commission were disrupted when a group of student activists entered the room. Among this group of students were those who had been suspended from UCT or had an interdict filed against them following their involvement in protest action, and alleged illegal activities, last year and at the beginning of this year. Price was escorted out of the venue by the South African Police Service and UCT issued a statement on the issue later that day.

The students were not violent and were there to demand that Price with the interdict placed against them. Price responded that he was unable to withdraw the interdict, as it fell outside

WE ACCEPT MEDICAL AIDS

of his jurisdiction. However he did point out the interdict was solely as a result of their alleged involvement in illegal activities and was not related to their activities as student activists and protests on campus.

In his presentation, Dr. Price argues that for the foreseeable future, there should be two main sources of funding for higher education: Government grants and tuition fees. In order to maintain equity, affordability should act as a barrier and ‘the poor’ should have access. There are three ways in which this can be achieved. Loans will be offered to students of lower income. A sliding scale can be used in order to offer free education for the very poor, mid-level fees for lower income student’s households and higher fees for higher income

GENERAL DENTISTRY www.dentistonmain.co.za info@dentistonmain.co.za

households. The sliding scale will ensure fairness and affordability in the fees. There is also the option of bursaries for lower income students.

UCT supports the co-funding of higher education from fees and subsidies. However, the government subsidy needs to rise by at least 30%. This will bring us closer to benchmark countries who are spending 1%of their GDP. By charging higher fees to the wealthy, part grants and loans to the lower income and providing free education (grants) to the ‘poor,’ universities should be able to achieve their goal of funding themselves above the national average. An increase in fees, which is then adjusted according to the sliding scale, will provide extra income for the universities.

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Editorial

13 September 2016 | V75 E 10 | Page 4

2016 Collective EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Aisha Abdool Karim editorial@varsitynewspaper.co.za

Editor-in-Chief

Aisha Abdool Karim

DEPUTY EDITOR Sandisiwe (Yogi) Shoba editorial@varsitynewspaper.co.za MANAGING EDITOR Tsepo Ngwenyama managingeditor@ varsitynewspaper.co.za COPY EDITOR Michaela Findeis copyed@varsitynewspaper.co.za ONLINE EDITOR Julius Stopforth online@varsitynewspaper.co.za CONTRIBUTORS & SUB-EDITORS Katherine Harris NEWS Sue Nyamnjoh and Zoe Postman news@varsitynewspaper.co.za OPINIONS Adam Kleinschmidt and Tanya Magaisa opinions@varsitynewspaper.co.za FEATURES Ali Findlay and Nicole Arends features@varsitynewspaper.co.za SPORTS Catherine Fulton and Jessie Moore sports@varsitynewspaper.co.za IMAGES Megon Venter, Jian-Yi Song and Taahirah Abrahams images@varsitynewspaper.co.za SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGERS Claire Millward and Lorena LesnaMaranetto socialmedia@varsitynewspaper. co.za DESIGN Mari Mombers design@varsitynewspaper.co.za VIDEOGRAPHER Rachel Sherwen video@varsitynewspaper.co.za CENTRESPREAD EDITOR Ashley Seymour centrespread@varsitynewspaper. co.za WEB EDITOR Nikhil Gilbert and Saajidah Gafoor web@varsitynewspaper.co.za ONLINE CONTENT EDITOR Zanele Kabane online@varsitynewspaper.co.za ONLINE CHIEF SUBBER Daniela Savoia ONLINE NEWS CORRESPONDENT Robyn Ausmeier onlinenews@varsitynewspaper. co.za ONLINE OPINIONS CORRESPONDENT Claudia Harrison onlineopinions@varsitynewspaper. co.za ONLINE FEATURES CORRESPONDENT Anthea van den Bergh onlinefeatures@varsitynewspaper. co.za

I

grew up in a house surrounded by my parents’ achievements. I saw them as the ultimate power couple, both working together and excelling in their field, following their passion and trying to make the world a slightly better place. I was used to the frequent trips they had to make when there were conferences to attend. I had absolutely no problem with the days when they both travelled together and my siblings and I were left with a babysitter or a relative to look after us. I never viewed my parents’ relationship as weird. I never once thought that there was anything unusual about the way I grew up or how my parents raised us.

As the years went by and time passed, I started to realise that perhaps my experience wasn’t the

‘

Shattering the Superwoman Stereotype

norm. I heard people talking about how their mom was always home or had taken off time from work when they were born. I heard others comment with resentment in their voices about how their mother was always working and missed a lot of events in their life. I have to think back to my younger years and I am hard pressed to remember a moment where I ever felt my mother was not present in my life. Along with giving me an ideal to strive for, she also gave me fond memories of reading stories and baking cookies.

I appreciate everything my mother has done, as I’m sure most children do. When I think abut her presence in my life and also the impact she has made on countless other lives, it’s hard to measure or describe the amount of admiration and respect I have for her. Everyone idolises their mother, almost everyone thinks that their mother can do no wrong. I, like those people, thought my mother was unstoppable. She was a Superwoman in her own right.

I grew up believing that I could have exactly what she had.

I thought I could have the perfect home life, being a great mother, having an exceptionally successful career and striking the perfect

My First Time

Oh no, it’s happening, it’s happening!’ I thought as I looked down at the dark stain on my favourite pink underwear. A rush of terror and excitement came over me as I grappled with the fact that I’d just become a ‘woman.’ I sat alone in the bathroom and tried to recall everything my mother had taught me: 1) Don’t panic (too late) 2) soak the stained underwear 3) Choose a dark pair of underwear (preferably maroon or black), grab a pad from the giant stash in my parent’s bedroom, and slip the underwear on 4) Tell someone you trust.

‘Okay,’ I thought, ‘That’s simple enough.’ But evidently it wasn’t, since I found myself semi-naked, on the floor, in a flood of tears. Menarche (the first period) isn’t necessarily a traumatic experience, but in my case it felt pretty bleak. My mother was working overseas, my sister was in university, and the only person who I could really talk to about my period was my father.

I was screwed.

‘Get it together Yogi,’ I thought as I picked my 12-year-old self, up off the floor. I did as my mother had instructed and followed steps one

through 3, but I kept the big moment a secret. I carried this giant secret with me until u-anti (that’s what we call the lady who helps around the house) discovered my poorly disposed of pads in the trash one day.

I was quite upset that she bypassed consulting with me about my secret and told my father instead, but the interactions that followed have given me a respect for my father that will never fade.

As we sat in traffic on the way to school one day, my father brought up the topic. I vaguely remember the conversation being both awkward and uncomfortable, yet comforting and freeing. I remember him asking me a number of questions about whether I had enough pads and whether I had the correct underwear (to which I dutifully nodded in response). He then asked me how I felt. That threw me off because I couldn’t just nod. I paused for a moment and then told him I felt scared. He looked at me with concern, then told me that I’d be okay and that menstruation is something natural and normal.

Yes, those words came from the mouth of a 50-something-year-

balance between all aspects of life.

This belief was reinforced by her friend circle, who, when I visited their houses portrayed the perfect image of your stereotypical mother.

The one who bakes and cooks and spends time with their children. For the longest time I believed all these fabulous, socialite-esque women did not have careers. They were always home when I visited and more often than not were baking something, so in my head they didn’t have jobs, but spent all day doing various domestic activities.

It was only a few years ago that I discovered that they were highpowered women who, like my mom, were dominating in their careers as well. These ladies felt the need to retain their femininity and portray this image of ‘having it all’ to the point where I wasn’t even aware of their achievements or the fact that they had full-time professions. Most of them were specialised doctors.

As much as I respect and admire my mother, I can’t help but feel like she, along with all these other ladies, misled me.

They provided me with false hope that I could achieve what they had.

They made me believe that I too, could be Superwoman. I envisioned excelling in my career, something

that was never up for negotiation when it comes to me, as well as having this idyllic representation of home life. Often womxn feel the need to choose between family and career, but I always thought I would never have to. For this I blame my mother. I blame the womxn who felt the need to maintain this façade of having the perfect life, at least when it comes to your stereotypical ideas of what a family should look like.

I blame these womxn for never showing me, or anyone, the dissatisfaction they felt with parts of their life or the areas where they felt as though they had ‘failed.’ I blame the society they were in for forcing them to carry this weight and enforcing the stereotypical view of a womxn’s role in the household. I blame the need for womxn to make a decision and choice at all when it comes to family versus career.

I believed it was possible to achieve both, and maybe for the occasional extraordinary womxn it is. But I think it’s time that we face the reality that it is impossible to actually ‘have it all’. We can’t be Superwoman and find that perfect balance between your personal and professional life. At some point you need to make a choice and decide where your priorities lie.

Deputy Editor-in-Chief

Sandisiwe (Yogi) Shoba

old Zulu man from KZN. But that’s beside the point, the real point is that in just one sentence my father taught me that my period was nothing to be ashamed about.

Menstruation is indeed something natural and normal and no one’s dignity should be compromised because of it. Your period matters and it shouldn’t be something that is either swept under the carpet or put on display as a subject for mockery. On Friday, a group of us joined the Red Wings Project on their visit to Matthew Goniwe High School in Khayelitsha. We had the privilege to interview a few female students there about their experiences surrounding menstruation.

These young girls shared stories about how boys have made them feel ashamed for being on their period, telling them they smell bad or are overly moody. They also explained that the high cost of pads has often caused some of them to miss school.

When they don’t have pads they have resorted to using socks and old bed sheets. The situation has improved since the Red Wings Project has started providing the girls with pads,

but often their mothers and other siblings end up using them instead.

This is an indicator that something must change.

If a 50-year-old man could respect my period, why can’t others respect the plight of underprivileged girls who can’t afford something as basic (in my view) as a pad? This is why I support initiatives such as the Red Wings Project, which not only empower young women to take ownership of their bodies and their periods, but remind the public that periods shouldn’t be ‘othered.’

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OPINIONS

May We Get It On? Filipp Stoliarov

I

want you to listen to Marvin Gaye's, ‘Let’s Get It On,’ or better yet, ‘Sexual Healing.’ Great songs in their own right, but more than that, they're part of a genre of music that encourages a relaxed and positive atmosphere for sex. Building and setting the mood, am I right?

So, you've lit the candles, scattered some rose petals and fluffed the pillows. What else could you be leaving out? What about saying, ‘Hey love, putting aside the Marvin Gaye, candles and rose petals, would you like to have sex?’ Insert dramatic gasp, followed by a window-crash noise. Consent, folks. It’s pretty much the difference between intimacy and violation. So why do we have such a problem asking for sex or confirming and re-affirming consent with our intimate partners?

One of the main arguments I keep hearing has to do with how it ‘ruins the mood.’ Excuse me? Let me tell you what will truly ruin your mood, and possibly your life. Being close to someone on an emotional,

physical and spiritual level and having that sense of trust and connection ruined by an inability to ask a single question.

Tacit consent in our relationships is essentially built around the principle that if intimacy is prevalent, then under the 'sexualised' or inferred circumstances, the advances of one partner and the lack of objection from the other implies consent.

Philosophy students will see the similarity of the Locke analogy. If you're a citizen of the world, walking on a highway in an unknown country, then inadvertently you agree to that country's laws simply by walking on their highway. The idea is one action infers or supports the principles or rules of another, even if the two factors are completely unrelated.

Back to tacit consent. Yes, being with a partner gives you the physical comfort you don't experience with most people you know. However, this never implies that you have free reign to assume any form of intimacy, simply based on your desires and past experiences with that partner.

We need to communicate more and assume less. Issues surrounding tacit consent stem from the inability of one partner or both partners to vocalise their discomfort or either

feeling discredited in whatever form by having to ask a question wherein other circumstances they did not.

In both and many other instances, potential for pain, trauma, and damage to relationships and people can occur. And yet all can be avoided simply by asking.

13 September 2016 | V75 E 10 | Page 5 Opinions Editor

An Adamant View

Adam Kleinschmidt

It is always necessary.

I'm not trying to simplify the scenario. At times, asking is also not enough. The key is healthy, honest, and regular communication between partners. We need to make sure that any thoughts or actions we have when it comes to our sexuality, are discussed with those we share it with.

It isn't easy or totally comfortable, but it is always necessary.

Being direct and transparent with our desires is part of the fabric in a functional and satisfying relationship. So next time, don't jump to conclusions or hesitate to ask because of perceived discomfort.

Ask, feel, and realise that sometimes, it’s not about sexual healing, but personal understanding.

A Whole New World?

Nobody could ever have prepared me, a naïve 18-yearold fresh out of high school, for the storm of change that occurred in my first formative years of university. I’ve gone through haircuts, changed my view on politics and, yes, did the delightfully clichéd thing of discovering myself.

Laugh all you want, but what you don’t realise is that this is something so critical to who we are. And in the spirit of all things sex, gender, and sexuality, it’s time to turn to the often ignored discussion around how our time as students should be well spent experiencing the various ins and outs of our identities. Like I said, it’s a storm, so bring a rain jacket and a warm Thermos.

For starters, leave your prejudice at the door: a cosmopolitan university is no place for sheltered, out-of-date views. Leave the protective bubble of your high school behind — you are now in the jagged world where you can truly test your beliefs.

The turbulence of your youth is best put to work at university, whatever your background, upbringing or situation. The numerous examples of protest action at UCT — Rhodes Must Fall and the subsequent ‘fallist’ movements — is suggestive of a changing world, and one that is directly challenging many unchanged social perceptions and dynamics.

Leave your prejudice at the door

Image: Megon Venter

DISCLAIMER

The VARSITY Opinions section is a vehicle for expression on any topic by members of the university community or other interested parties. The opinions within this section are not necessarily those of the VARSITY Collective or its advertisers.

Letters to the Editor need to be kept to a maximum of 300 words and can be sent to: opinions@varsitynewspaper.co.za

When looking at gender and sexuality specifically, it’s a case of discovering queer identities under the LGBT+ label. Be it a discovering of your transgender identity, or that you are fluid with your sexual interactions, this is the community you are looking at. What is this in real terms? In simple, terms I’m referring to that one night out that ended in ways you never knew.

Sexuality and gender are two very powerful, and thus very dangerous, social constructs.

The fact that as a cis-gendered

man means I am expected to behave in a certain way and look like every other man out there is grossly offensive and in many ways restricts me of the opportunity to experience another part of myself. In any social construct (marriage, for example) you should be afforded the chance to opt-in or opt-out at your own will. It’s the typical right of choice: you don’t want it, so don’t do it. You want to have a fluid sexuality, have it, if that is your choice.

You have a free choice

Why do you think so many people across the world campaign for marriage equality?

Why is it a chief concern for many human rights groups that many states still have punitive anti-gay laws, and some even use capital punishment? For the simple reason that the world that is imagined as straight and cis-gendered is on the same level as Wonderland.

How does this tie into my broader argument about experience? You have a free choice, so be aware of you. You aren’t always compelled to take up every choice, but be brave and engage with it. Speak to people outside your box. Be comfortable in environments you don’t normally frequent. Your sexual and gender freedom is there, so use the key as you will. I am by no means telling you to go out there and do something you don’t feel compelled to do. A big solution for many of the big problems out there is perspective, and the bigger scope you have to view the world the more likely you are to challenge the negative conditions out there.

I must stress not to make a token experience out of this: it isn’t acceptable to brush away the lived experiences of others simply because ‘we totally like hooked up in Claremont, lol, #banter,’ or similar statements like that. In the end, what I am saying is that the experiences you take with you will guide your future.

13 September 2016 | V75 E 10 | Page 6

OPINIONS

Talking About Sex

During Sex, is Good for Sex Tanya Magaisa

T

alking about sex, during sex, is good for sex. Talking about sex when not having sex is also good for sex. But mostly, talking about sex makes sex less of a thing.

Everyone won’t feel so alone about the fact that the sex thing is not as instinctively natural as breathing.

F***ing is like learning how to walk: you’ve got to stumble and fall, scrape a knee, and get back up again before you master it.

Not as instinctively natural as breathing Now, I’m no expert. I’ve fallen hard, and I am too frightened to get back up. Let me tell you, I’d rather it were like breathing because the scrapes on my knees have not been healing and it has caused me so much worry. The nice people who tell me to get back up again, they make me feel better but I need to

know that my body is protected. I don’t want to be scared of ruining the mood by asking about a condom. I’m willing to pause for this. I’m willing to wait. I also need to know my mind is secure. If you see my body shaking, if you notice I can’t look at you, and if I put my head between my knees: I’m frightened. Don’t keep going.

There is a repressive, prudish culture around talking about sex, but not so much about talking about doing it. How often, how long, how good and how skilfully done, but when you mention the nitty gritty dirty things, eyes pop out, mouths shut and heads shake.

If your friends won’t mention all the falls, then who can you turn to when you’re scared you’re doing it wrong, because that’s what we’re all afraid of right? Doing it wrong, being under-whelming.

The truth is, there is no right way to drop down to your knees, there is no correct way to open up your legs and sometimes the bodies will understand each other and he won’t forget that you’re coming, and other times — probably most times — there will be awkwardness while your vagina makes small talk with his penis. They’ve got to get to know

each other. So, next time when you bite his lower lip, ask him if he likes it. Don’t assume because you saw it on a porno that homeboy is down with the vampire loving.

It’s okay to discuss lube, and tell him that he’s hurting you without it. It’s fine if you start, realise you aren’t responding and want him to stop. It’s also alright, when he drops his jeans, for you to tell him that you don’t know what he wants you to do with it.

You didn’t arrive with a penis map and directions. Even if you’ve done it before with someone else, you aren’t an expert. This is no craft. Sex is another method of communication: we’re talking and when we meet we will make mistakes, offend and apologise.

Admit your John Snow-y state of mind at the first entrance in; I know nothing is always better than I know everything and failing. When we have no expectations, we have no disappointments. Then sex will be a lovely progression from fairly done, to mind blowing orgasmic ecstasy.

We can begin average, so we can become first class sex citizens, and hopefully by then, homeboy will be down with biting.

Your Body, Teach It to Me. Belle Miller

I

’m sitting cross-legged on my friend’s couch, drinking wine and laughing in near hysterics. We’re discussing Louise’s* latest sexual escapade. It was after a night out in Observatory and the next thing they knew, they ended up back at her flat. After the initial awkwardness, which was mostly to do with being in a well-lit room without another fifty people and pool tables, they got down to business.

‘It took him a solid five minutes to take my bra off!’ Louise exclaimed.

Fair enough, bras can be tricky. But, that could have been easily remedied by either party pretty quickly.

‘So he finally got my bra off, and things started going somewhere, I gave him consent before he started undressing me, and he asked again, which was great, and I explicitly said “yes, I want to have sex with you”.’

Louise has lowered her voice, and a pinkish colour has crept over her face.

YAAASSS Louise. Good start.

Consent is important, and sex cannot happen without it.

‘But then what happened?’, probed Courtney*.

Louise smiled and took a deep breath before continuing.

Nobody likes a starfish

‘Like, it was fine, just kinda disappointing… He was fumbling around and it was almost like he had no clue what he was doing. It’s like that scene in Chicago where Roxie Hart talks about having sex with Amos – “I love you honey, I love you”.’ she says, impersonating him, as she rotates her wrists, pretending to feel up a woman!

‘It was pretty awkward and, like shame, yeah… I mean he was a great guy, but he just didn’t know how to please me.’ Louise slumped back into her chair and said nothing for a few seconds.

Being a bad lover isn’t necessarily a crime against humanity, just, in this case, against Louise’s libido. However, both Louise and her mystery man could have avoided this average sex much faster. They’re both at fault here.

‘Did you prompt him in any way or…?’ I asked.

‘God no! That would be so awkward…’ As soon as Louise uttered these words, my heart sank and all I could muster was a shrug.

I wish, only, she’d taken a cue from our beloved Amy. Remember how she sang ‘the only time I hold your hand is to get your angle right’?’ My dear Louise, you had every right, to get his angle right.

There seems to be a misconception amongst my female friends, in cis het partnerships, that men are these clueless oafs fumbling around our bodies, not really knowing what to do.

This idea that women cannot take charge of their sexual pleasure baffles me, and furthermore, the absurdity that every single person is a genius in the bedroom is unfair.

Avoid the ‘kissy kissy, fiddly fiddly, and onto pound town we go’ stance with your partner.

It’s not going to end well, but rather, disappointingly.

If you’re in any way not being satisfied by your partner, you need to communicate with them. It shouldn’t be an awkward conversation to have,

Image: Tanya Magaisa

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and if you can’t face saying ‘I like being spanked and having my hair pulled’ without dying of embarrassment, perhaps you need to evaluate if you’re emotionally ready to be having sex, or if you are choosing the right sexual partner.

Furthermore, you need to ‘read’ your partner and if they’re not initiating the conversation, perhaps you should. Take charge of your sexual pleasure, folks!

Also, don’t be selfish. Ask bae what they’d like to experience in the bedroom. Don’t be a lazy lover. Nobody likes a starfish.

OPINIONS Porn Not So Good Jessica Still

I

f you search ‘Why I Stopped Watching Porn,’ on YouTube, a sheepish Ran Gavrieli will tell you that he adores junk reality shows, that he cannot sing, and that he was once addicted to porn. He’s not alone. On three counts. A 2014 survey conducted by the Barna Group in the US revealed that 63% of 18- to 30-year-old men watch porn at least several times a week. 21% of women watch it as frequently. For perspective: Google’s DoubleClick Ad Planner, which tracks web-usage with a cookie, revealed the largest porn-site gets 4.4 billion visits per month. There are only 3.5 billion internet users worldwide.

shows us sex, but not intimacy Gavrieli stopped watching porn because it brought ‘anger and violence… which was not there originally’ into his fantasies and because he no longer wanted to create a demand for ‘documented prostitution.’

As the world watches more porn, pop culture gets increasingly sex saturated to maintain viewership. While ‘health foods’ hide high sugar content to trap customers, perhaps porn-y pop culture plays to a different addiction.

Porn usage floods the brain with dopamine. Over time the brain kills dopamine receptors to restore balance. Eventually, habitual porn usage strengthens neural reward pathways so that when the user is feeling low they are likely to turn to porn for a dopamine fix. But fewer receptors means more porn and more extreme porn is needed to achieve the same effect as before. Perhaps this is why today’s pornography contains more narratives of violence, humiliation and domination than ever before.

It’s not all violent, but a study of 50 best-selling porn films revealed that 88% of their combined scenes

contained physical aggression of some kind. Dr Mary Anne Layden, of the Centre for Cognitive Therapy at the University of Pennsylvania, observed: ‘Pornography actresses have high rates of substance abuse, typically alcohol and cocaine, depression, borderline personality disorder… and most commonly have to be drunk, high or dissociated in order to work.’

Some may choose careers in porn, but others fall prey to the industry’s web of sex trafficking, child prostitution and slavery.

Thus, watching porn on seedy websites most likely contributes to the underground sex trade, if not directly then indirectly by creating a demand for prostitution.

Even if a porn site guaranteed that its performers were well treated and free to leave, I still think a pornsaturated culture has adverse effects on women, and everyone really.

Regular porn usage has been shown to lead to increased voyeurism, objectification, trophy-ism and fear of true intimacy. Furthermore, porn is by nature objectifying and selfserving. For these reasons I argue that we can’t be pro-porn and antirape culture concurrently.

sex-trafficking, child prostitution and slavery Porn affects its users severely as well. Being people, we spend our lives trying to establish meaningful connections. But to paraphrase Michael Ramsden: Porn reduces complex people to objects for our pleasure. You can’t form an authentic connection with an object and thus we watch more porn but feel less fulfilled. Porn shows us sex, but not intimacy. ‘Porn doesn’t show us too much of love, relationships and sex, but too little.’

We’re always free to do what we want. However, I suspect that porn obscures what we really want.

It damages the attitudes we need to establish lasting relationships and healthy sex lives, thus short changing us.

13 September 2016 | V75 E 10 | Page 7

I Hit That

Image: Megon Venter

Jemima Lewin

H

ow do we really talk about sex?

Language, sex, and power all work simultaneously. The way we talk about sex exposes how society really works and what, ultimately are its flaws. From the stigmas surrounding masturbation to the language of sex being oppressive, and sometimes intimidating and violent, it is apparent that language creates realities, especially social realities.

The way we express sexual desire is often in terms that my grandmother would cringe at, while rushing to get the soap to wash my mouth out. Consider the conversations you have with your friends about sex. It is not uncommon to hear the terms ‘hooking-up,’ ‘screwing’ and ‘banging’ during the conversation.

Gone are the days of Boyz II Men’s,

‘I’ll make love to you, like you want me to,’ now it is ‘the way you grab me, must wanna get nasty.’ When did ‘making love’ become corny and ‘soft?’ Through metaphors and phrases, we legitimise attitudes that connect sex with violence, degradation and dominance.

Words are powerful, and have a great impact on the way we shape our minds and perceptions about certain things. In the same way, perceptions about sex and things related to sex have stigmas attached to them as a result of false ideas being perpetuated. Take masturbation.

For men, masturbation is spoken about as a non-stigmatised act, an easy topic for conversation, usually spoken about as a normal thing to do. ‘I wank a lot’ will slide out of man’s mouth as easily as ‘I like my coffee hot.’

Unfortunately, there is a shameful stigma attached to women masturbating. The reaction is often one of repulsion and confusion. It seems, at times, as if society is afraid to speak about it at all. The issue of dominance and power flares up: who does the language of sex empower and who does it disempower?

When we talk about sex, the power struggle between men and women becomes evident. Sex is often spoken about in terms that degrade and subjugate women.

Phrases such as ‘I hit that’ or ‘I banged her brains out’ are not uncommon. Sex becomes an achievement of some sort; the ultimate conquest.

The language we use when talking about sex speaks to our aggressive and fast culture. Take the dating app, Tinder, for example. It is fast and easy, you see a picture of someone, if you like it, you swipe right, if they like your picture, it is a match. Tinder enables ‘matches’ to chat to one another too. This is where phrases such as ‘Send nudes’ and ‘DTF?’ (Down to f**k?) are rife.

A bit like ordering pizza toppings, I’d posit. Men use the terms freely and are often glorified when they do.

However, women are almost always shamed when they do the same.

Sex, remains a controversial topic, heavily discussed by some and swept under the carpet by others. Talking about sex or even to a member of the opposite sex is still heavily prohibited in a lot of countries today. People are often reprimanded for just standing too close while talking to a member of the opposite sex in places like Saudi Arabia. It is evident that the language of sex deals directly with power, which is why it becomes so important to choose your words wisely.

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What is Going On?!?

However, in this situation,the future of the SRC is not so clear...

According to the current SRC constitution, an interim SRC is mandated if less than 25% of registered students vote in the SRC elections. At this point, an interim SRC takes tempory control of SRC duties. The constitution states that:

‘SRC thus recognised shall have the powers, rights and obligations of a SRC except that 12.1 it may not propose amendments to the SRC constitution; and 12.2 it will be bound by a simple majority of the Student Assembly at a meeting of the Student Assembly at which there is a quorum; provided that this article shall in no way limit the Council’s right, after consultation with the Interim SRC, to make any changes to the SRC Constitution.’

SRC Candidate no. 11: Masixole Mlandu has been prevented from entering UCT property, as a result of a court interdict filed against him after protest action on campus earlier this year.

Chanda Chungu, the current Deputy Speaker of UCT’s Student Parliament, has speculated that a similar interim SRC condition may come into play, stating that ultimately, it is up to the council to determine if the interim SRC can be ‘deemed’ an SRC.

Due to this interdict, Mlandu has been unable to study on campus or campaign for his position on the SRC.

‘The problem is however that it is unclear what happens if an election doesn’t happen altogether...it’s problematic because we will always assume that there will always be an election.’

As to what may happen if the election suspension runs past October 31st, when the current SRC will end their term, Chungu suggests that, after consulting with Student Parliament, ‘The Election Comission may submit to Council saying that the old SRC, I assume, will continue until the new SRC is elected.’

Regardless, an election must happen!

On Tuesday, September 6th, the UCT Election Commission announced that they would ‘suspend elections indefinitely’, given Masixole’s inability to participate in campaigning.

As part of their statement, the Election comission announced that: ‘The Election Commission cannot fulfil its mandate to conduct free and fair elections on university property as it cannot currently: • provide all candidates with equal campaigning opportunities; • provide voters with free and equal access to all candidates; and • move campaign activities off campus as it does not have the capacity to ensure the safety of students present at these events’

For now, this remains hypothetical as elections have only been suspended and not officially postponed. Should an election not take place before the required date (October 31st) there are two possibilities. The first is that a transitional SRc may come into effect.

Alternatively, the outgoing SRC might be asked to stay on board until a new SRC is elected.

At the moment, the current members of the SRC are: President — Rorisang Moseli Vice-President External — Ryan Prithraj Vice-President Internal — Nthupula Masipa Secretary-General — Noxolo Ntaka Deputy Secretary-General — Denzhe Mabuli Treasurer — Marcus Gawronsky Chair: Undergraduate Academics — Zain Bana Chair: Postgraduate Academics — Grace Moyo Chair: Day Students — Thembelihle Ncayiyana

Chair: Entertainment and Fundraising — Greg Keal Chair: Health, Safety and Environment — Tayla Karsten Chair: International Students — Gloria Chikaonda Chair: Labour & Services — Athenkosi Nzala Chair: Residences — Tshegofatso Putu Chair: Societies — Shehana Bhabha Chair: Sports & Recreation — Gordon Dodge Chair: Transformation & Social Responsiveness — Ntebogang Segone

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13 September 2016 | V75 E 10 | Page 10

Stirring up the Silver Screen

Top unknown TV Shows with the best LGBTQIA+ representation Aisha Abdool Karim

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ver time we have seen an increase of diversity and representation in mainstream media, with movies such as The Danish Girl and TV shows like Orange Is The New Black. Below is a list of five lesser known shows that include a variety of complex characters of different races, genders and sexualities.

If you have been looking for a good sci-fi show, but aren’t satisfied with the representation in ones you’ve come across then you should give Sense8 a try. When it comes to representation within the show, there are two gay characters, who live in Mexico City, as well as two lesbian characters (one of whom is transgender), who live in San Francisco. Unlike other shows these characters are not relegated to their sexuality, but – just like real people – are complex, and over the first season the nuances within their characters are explored and

developed. The series manages to delve into issues of gender, sexuality, identity, culture, and so much more, all while maintaining the intrigue of the plot. If you have had enough of one dimensional characters who are limited to one aspect of their identity then catch up before Season 2 is released in December of this year.

I will admit that the premise of this show made me a bit apprehensive to give it a try, however Faking It was full of surprises. With an introduction about two girls pretending to be girlfriends in order to be popular, you might be tempted to write this show off, but once you actually start watching you’ll soon find yourself overly invested in most of the characters. I am a sucker for a well-written female character – something this show seems to have in abundance. The show deals with the issue of realising your sexuality and coming out to your parents in

a way that demonstrates realistic character growth. The show has no shortage of representation with lesbian, bisexual, transgender, gay and intersex characters. While not all of the characters and writing are spectacular and the show was cancelled after three seasons, it is well worth taking the time to watch.

Currently on its fourth season, The Fosters brings a much more domestic family-oriented form of representation to the LGBTQIA+ community. The series focuses on a lesbian couple who take in Callie and her brother as foster children.

This family drama emphasises that sexuality does not influence the quality of a person’s ability to be a parent. In addition to addressing the complex process of adoption and the importance of providing children in foster care with a safe space, the show also looks at different cultural heritages and self-acceptance.

Ultimately, if you’re looking for an

emotional family show that delves into issues beyond sexuality then this is the series for you.

This show may not technically be classified as lesser known, given that it has been nominated for the 68th Primetime Creative Arts Emmy Awards. It is also technically more of a web series than a traditional TV show, as the episodes are available on Youtube and are generally around eight minutes long. However, it still deserves a spot on this list for its outstanding portrayal of transgender women. Unlike a lot of transgender characters, who have recently entered mainstream media, these characters are written and portrayed by transgender actresses. The show is completely unique and offers an entirely new perspective on transgendered characters. The writing and acting combine to develop the characters beyond just their trans identity in the short run time of the series.

If you’re looking for a show that centres around sexuality, lesbians and hot sex then unfortunately, this is the wrong one for you. Carmilla is a web series that is about to start its third season on September 15th. Each season is readily available on Youtube with episodes ranging from around three to seven minutes. The series is shot like a video journal with the main character, Laura, documenting her time at college. The series is full of mystery and supernatural occurrences but is balanced by the comedy and frequent pop culture references. The focus of the show is primarily on the odd occurrences at the fictional Silas University, but it also tracks the growing relationship between Laura and her roommate. There are also frequent appearances from other students on campus, including a non-binary student. Almost the entire cast is female, so if you’re looking to watch some badass ladies head on over to Youtube.

Gender and Sex: The Stats of LGBTQ+ students hear homophobic comments at school of South Africans believe that same sex sexual activity is ‘morally wrong’ women are killed by an intimate partner in South Africa every day

of men say they always reach orgasm while only of women say they always reach orgasm

CALL FOR APPLICATIONS The Centre for Curating the Archive and Michaelis School of Fine Art in collaboration with Iziko Museums of South Africa offer a unique set of courses in the theory and practice of curatorship. By way of lectures, visiting scholars, internships, a range of dedicated workshops and fullyfunded local and international field trips, this programme aims to develop in students an awareness of the practicalities, politics and poetics of working with collections, preparing students for further study and work in the field.

A limited number of bursaries are available to South African citizens.

Preference will be given to designated groups.

Deadline: 31 October 2016 For further information, please visit www.cca.uct.ac.za Enquiries should be sent to: nancy.dantas@uct.ac.za / 021 650 7151.

SA is ranked 17 out of 136 countries for its tackling of gender equality issues Sources: The Other Foundation Gay, Lesbian, Straight Network Sonder Gender Justice Statisticbrain World Economic Forum

128041 www.ayandambanga.co.za

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13 September 2016 | V75 E 10 | Page 11

Sex: It’s a Personality Thing

Considering white-savior-complex Yogi Shoba tendencies in gender and sex education I Pieter du Plessis

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henever we go to high schools, it is always with the full intention that we would like to be able to touch on everything and anything sex and gender related.

We get bombarded with questions (sometimes almost impossible to answer) or empty stares, wrap up the session and hope we had gotten to someone, sparked something or changed at least one perception.

But the truth is, you will never really know.

As gender and sex facilitators, the work that we do when interacting with high schoolers is of extreme importance and what we say is something that either stays and influences, or goes in one ear and out the other. Whatever the case may be, it is important to acknowledge that you are doing the work that needs to be done, without thinking that you are saving the world. So often you get caught up in the idea that you are changing lives, breaking barriers and defeating the patriarchy one step at a time, and then you take a deep breath and realise, you are just one person in a handful of people doing something that you hope could change what you had to go through at school.

But how do you reconsider and recognise, doing what you want to do and achieve by changing the world and breaking down barriers, and doing what is really needed in very particular contexts? The first could easily feed into the oh-so-well-known white savior complex. Now I know what you are thinking. ‘Oh that is the American white kids that come here every semester and take pictures with the black children in townships and of course, elephants. And post them

all over Facebook in the hopes that they will be seen as charitable, caring and loving.’ Well kind of, but we also have those over here. So often I can see the line getting blurry with student organisations and even with myself, where it becomes more about what ‘you’ want out of it, than what is really needed. I can go yapping on about gender roles at a school, get back home and think: ‘oh that is great, now they will change their lives and implement what I have said.’ It just does not work that way. You have learners from all walks of life, with very different ideas and ways of understanding, and believing that you will be the one to change it just like that, is false. We do not operate in one dimension, and neither do those around us.

It is important for us to reflect on what we believe we can do in society and what actually gets done, and for whom — for you or for everyone else?

Listening and conceptualising are vital components when interacting with others, and if we were to listen and conceptualise more about what gets communicated to us in various forms, it is then that we could perhaps find what is right in front of us. Right in front of us could be the high school learners’ solutions and not ours, it could be ways of explaining and understanding sex and gender in ways not known to us, it could be so many things...

This issue of the VARSITY Newspaper, on sex and gender is work that is being done where it is needed. But ask yourself the question: how many people are actually going to pick this up and read, and be changed? It is easy to talk about sex and gender, and be seen as so forward thinking by your peers, but where is it all going?

Change and understanding starts with the self, and then only can it make sense to others — maybe.

f you’re an individual who’s fascinated with human interaction then you’ve probably encountered the (in)famous Myers Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI).

This test is designed to categorise people into one of 16 personality types. INTJ, INFP and ESFP are just a few of the terms used to describe your personality traits based on how you perceive and interact with the world and how others perceive you as an individual.

Your personality type is constructed based on four socalled binaries: Extraverted or Introverted Sensing or Intuiting Thinking or Feeling Judging or Perceiving Most people find the MBTI shockingly accurate and the good news is, it can be applied in various contexts including dating and sex.

Not only can your MBTI help you find the perfect mate, it can also determine who you are sexually compatible with.

Here’s a breakdown: INFP: ‘The Idealist’ INFP personalities are imaginative and deeply romantic.

They are not the type for a one night stand. They need a partner who will invest in them emotionally before they decide to give it up.

Sexually compatible with: ENFJ, ENTJ, INTJ INFJ: ‘The Protector’ INFJ personalities have a keen ability to connect with people on a profound level. They love to serve and put others before themselves.

The INFJ takes a while to open up both emotionally and sexually. They need to feel they can trust their partner completely. Their sexual enjoyment comes from pleasing their partner.

Sexually compatible with: ENFP, ENTP, INFP ENFJ: ‘Giver’ ENFJ personalities are passionate and charismatic. They are known for their generosity — especially in the bedroom. ENFJ types thrive on making others

happy and find fulfilment in a committed relationship.

Sexually compatible with: INFP, INTP ENFP: ‘Inspirer’ ENFP personalities are openminded and enthusiastic. They love to explore and can be extremely creative in the bedroom. ENFP types find it easy to open-up to people, but they need someone adventurous to match their sexual prowess.

Sexually compatible with: INFJ, INTJ INTJ: ‘Strategist’ The INTJ personality sees the world as a plethora of possibilities waiting to be discovered. They are bold, confident and have a deep thirst for knowledge. INTJ types view sex as an algorithm to be solved. Each sexual encounter is a step closer to becoming a ‘machine’ in the bedroom.

Sexually compatible with: ENTP, ENFP, INFP INTP: ‘Thinker’ The INTP personality struggles to open up to people. They need to feel extremely comfortable with their partner before jumping in the sack.

When the INTP feels safe they are surprisingly bold in the bedroom.

Sexually compatible with: ENTJ, ENFJ ENTJ: ‘Executive’ The ENTJ personality tends to have very high standards. They feel let-down if their partner doesn’t meet the expectations they’ve built up in their minds.

The ENTJ is also exceptionally dominant in the bedroom, so if you’re into whips and chains, they’re definitely your type.

Sexually compatible with: INTP, INFP ENTP: ‘Visionary’ The ENTP personality loves to push boundaries. Sex is never just sex, it’s a full-on experience. The ENTP is only satisfied if they have stimulated both your body and your mind. The ENTP also tends to lean towards the kinky side of life and enjoys playing out their deepest fantasies with a partner they love and trust.

Sexually compatible with: INTJ, INFJ ISTJ: ‘Duty-Filler’ The ISTJ personality is all

Image: Flickr /stephen_dyrgas

about consistency. Sex for them is a scheduled event which should occur regularly in a relationship.

They are definitely not spontaneous beings, but they’re, well, safe, and who doesn’t like safe?

Sexually compatible with: ESTP, ESFP ISFJ: ‘Nurturer’ The ISFJ personality is exceptionally selfless. They put their partner’s needs before their own and view sex as an act of service.

Sexually compatible with: ESFP, ESTP ESTJ: ‘Guardian’ The ESTJ personality is a born leader. They love to dominate in the bedroom and focus mainly on the physical but neglect the emotional aspect of sex. They often use sex to prove a point: ‘how long can I last,’ ‘how loud can I make him/her scream,’ so don’t expect fluffy pillowtalk from this personality type.

Sexually compatible with: ISTP, ISFP ESFJ: ‘Caregiver’ The ESFJ likes to make their partner feel valued. They use sex to express their full range of emotions towards their lover and like to ensure that he/she is fully enjoying the sexual experience.

Sexually compatible with: ISFP, ISTP ISTP: ‘Mechanic’ The ISTP personality loves to explore, and that includes their partner’s body. The ISTP type enjoys discovering how things work and will put in the effort to discover what turns their partner on. They tend to be spontaneous and love trying new things, much to their partner’s delight.

Sexually compatible with: ESFJ, ESTJ ISFP: ‘Artist’ The ISFP personality is turned on by the visual aspect of sex. They see the body as a muse for sexual artistry.

They love to show their partners that they love and appreciate them both physically and emotionally Sexually compatible with: ESTJ, ESFJ ESTP: ‘Doer’ The ESTP personality HATES being tied down. They prefer a one night stand over a committed longterm relationship. ESTP types are ‘in the moment’ people and often act impulsively. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing as this can create a pleasantly refreshing experience for their sexual partners.

Sexually compatible with: ISTJ, ISFJ ESFP: ‘Entertainer’ The ESFP personality is a born performer, and yes, they perform EXCEPTIONALLY well in the bedroom. They have a combination of sensitivity, imagination and openmindedness which makes for a magical sexual experience.

Sexually compatible with: ISTJ, ISFJ

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Myth Busters 13 September 2016 | V75 E 10 | Page 12

The truth about common sex and gender myths Ali Findlay 1. Sex and gender are the same thing Even though the world has come pretty far in recent years in terms of understanding and learning about sex and gender issues, many people are still unaware of the difference between sex and gender. Sex refers to biology and the physical differences between men and womxn. Gender is harder to define, but in essence it is both the characteristics that society attributes to both sexes and a person’s personal idea of themselves, i.e. their gender identity.

2.

Womxn don’t want sex as much as men do In case you were unaware, womxn like sex. Many people are under the (false) impression that sex satisfies men more than womxn.

The truth is, womxn enjoy sex just as much as men do. Of course there will be good times, terrible times, and fantastic times, but that has nothing to do with a person’s gender and everything to do with who you are having sex with.

3. Same sex couples don’t really have sex It’s important to understand that here, sex doesn’t only refer to a penis penetrating a vagina.

Sex is different for everyone. Just because a couple may have the same genitalia and have sex in a different way to straight couples does not mean that they don’t, or can’t, have sex.

4. Masturbation is only for men No, no, definitely not. Not only do many people believe that womxn can’t or shouldn’t masturbate, but many also think that masturbation

is gross, wrong or embarrassing. It actually isn’t any of those things.

It’s important to explore your own body and be aware of what it does for you. Also, both men and womxn have sexual urges. Why is it only okay for men to act on them? We need to stop this kind of thinking because it contributes to the belief that sex is only for men, which is simply not true.

5. If a womxn is on her period, she can’t get pregnant Contrary to what you might believe, a womxn can actually get pregnant during her period. If you do not want to get pregnant, always use contraception.

6.

All trans people are gay Identifying as transgender has nothing to do with your sexual orientation. Trans individuals can identify as being straight, bisexual, gay or lesbian.

7. If you don’t enjoy sex there is something wrong with you This kind of thinking is very dangerous. Everyone is different.

Some people enjoy sex more than others and that’s okay. Remember that who you have sex with usually directly influences your enjoyment and it’s important to communicate openly with your partner so that you can both enjoy sex as much as possible. Some people also identify as being asexual, meaning they have no sexual feelings or associations.

8.

Sex in real life is just like it is in the movies Umm, no. Movie sex doesn’t show the awkward, messy or unsuccessful parts of sex — only the good parts. Movies don’t often show people making use of contraception (or lube), the after sex clean up or navigating consent. Don’t be upset if your sex life doesn’t match up to

movie standards — no one’s does.

9. All bisexual people are actually gay Contrary to what many people believe, bisexuality isn’t a cover up for being gay. It is a real sexual orientation and bi individuals shouldn’t have to explain or justify their orientation to anyone. Why is it so hard to understand that some people are attracted to both men and womxn?

Not everything has to be finite.

10. Womxn shouldn’t have as many sexual partners as men If a womxn enjoys sex and has a healthy, active sex life it doesn’t mean she is a slut. The idea that men can sleep with however many people they want to and womxn should limit their number to something ‘acceptable’ is nonsense. Having sex is not a sin. As long as you are being safe and you feel safe, don’t feel bad for enjoying yourself. #sorrynotsorry

Game Changers: SA Women in Business Luke Naude and Yasmin Hendricks For Invest Soc

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hen looking at entrepreneurship in South Africa, you can call it a male dominated game.

According to research conducted by the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM), the typical South African entrepreneur is presented as a male between the ages of 25 and 44. Are South African women claiming their space in the business world? Are women breaking boundaries in predominantly male-dominated sectors as leaders, role models and entrepreneurs? Many women have been claiming their space and breaking boundaries, but these instances still remain exceptions and not the standard. This is a call to celebrate our pioneering South African business women who are slowly changing the face of South African entrepreneurship by eradicating the gender gap in business, overcoming societal barriers which are holding women back, and paving the way for increased future numbers of women leaders.

According to a 2014 SME Survey, 8% of South African small to medium enterprises (SMEs) are female-owned businesses.

This stat proves meagre in light of the fact that 78% of femaleowned small businesses run at a profit, in comparison with 70% for men. The key for unlocking economic growth in South Africa

Image: Sam Javanrouh is held by women. In light of the above mentioned stat, more needs to be done to foster female entrepreneurship, particularly given the fact that women in the business sector face more obstacles than their male counterparts.

A number of South African business women have successfully overcome such challenges, including access to finance, socialisation networks and family roles, making a name for themselves in the business world, while challenging the

stereotype of a risk-averse business woman, with displays of strong leadership in a growing number of high profit female leaders at the spearhead of innovative, competitive business. Such role models, together with their achievements are worthy of celebration: Ketleho Tsoku: CEO of Spark* South Africa.

Tsoku believes cultural barriers and minimal access to social and financial capital are some of the key challenges young black women

entrepreneurs face, but that these are by no means insurmountable.

After embarking on her own entrepreneurial journey at the age of 25, she now works to empower other entrepreneurs through her role within the Spark* International Group. In this role she has also launched an accelerator that specifically focuses on the start-up journeys of ventures led by women.

Nicola Newton-King: CEO of the Johannesburg Stock Exchange Limited.

Newton-King has helped shaped the landscape of South African business not only by drafting part of the Insider Trading Act of 1998 and the Securities Services Bill, but also through her role in the development of the Socially Responsible Investment Index at the JSE which was the first of its kind worldwide.

Tlaleng Moabi: Founder of Enanzi Technologies.

Moabi, who has a BSc in Electrical Engineering and an MSc in Transportation Engineering, said in an interview with SME South Africa that in the maledominated engineering industry technical competence is often overlooked because of negative perception. She maintains that having the mind-set of a winner and a passion for her field have driven her to overcome the challenges she and other women in the sector face.

The path is widening for more female entrepreneurs to join the ranks of those already disrupting the patriarchal status quo. According to the Small Enterprise Development Agency, 72% of micro-enterprises and 40% of small businesses in South Africa are owned by women.

However, for women to only dominate lower-level enterprise is simply not enough. More needs to be done to grapple with issues of gender inequality, and more solutions need to be presented to overcome the challenges that South African female entrepreneurs face, unlocking the potential of increasing South African economic growth to which women hold the key.

FEATURES

13 September 2016 | V75 E 10 | Page 13

Girls like dolls, not computers!

Gender stereotypes are harming the technology industry, and this student society is doing something about it.

Caroline Reid

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omen are underrepresented in science and technology.

That is the same old, tired story we have heard over and over again, and it's not going to change tomorrow, or next week. However, there are pioneers striving to make meaningful change in the years to come.

Imaculate Mosha is the chairperson of the Women in Computer Science group at the University of Cape Town (UCT).

In a class where only four of the 46 students are women, she felt it was time to resurrect this society. Not an easy task, since it had previously disbanded for inactivity. She, alongside her committee, rolled up their sleeves and spent the last year creating an inclusive and friendly environment for men and women in computer science with events, interview practice and workshops (and pizza!).

This inclusive atmosphere is essential for attracting and retaining women in the field. Michelle Kuttel, associate professor of Computer Science at UCT, commented that her experience as a student at university stifled her love of programming.

'I found the environment very

unfriendly to women — to the extent that I started to question my programming ability.'

Fortunately, Kuttel realised her love for computer science and is now a lecturer. However, women all too often leave the field because of the challenging atmosphere.

This is something that Women in Computer Science aims to rectify so that other women aren’t discouraged from completing their degrees.

Why is it so important to have gender balance in computer science?

Arguably, computers have already redefined the way we live without an equal ratio of men to women. Katie Benson, a representation researcher from AAUW Research, discusses the importance of a balanced team with regards to gender and ethnicity.

She comments that diversity in a workforce means that everyone’s experiences guide the direction of the product and 'contributes to creativity, productivity, and innovation.' She points out that if we want an internet that’s friendly for both men and women across all ethnicities, then we need everyone working as programmers.

Imaculate comments that 'stereotyping' is a large factor dissuading young girls from

pursuing a career in computer science. She notes that this starts from a very young age. Boys are given toy cars and taught to solve problems, whereas girls are given dolls and miss out on this investigative learning. The society wants to focus on outreach, and Kittel now runs a programming course at her daughter’s primary

school. She comments 'I think that it is very important to give young girls early exposure to programming.'

One of the highlights of their year was securing sponsorship from Google, Amazon and Facebook, three global computer-science oriented corporations that can see the tremendous worth in the society. Onalerona Mosimege, who

is the freshly elected chair taking over Women in Computer Science next year, has big plans to prepare current students for the corporate world: 'My goal is to now try give females the motivation they need to get to these top roles.'

What would Imaculate suggest to any young woman thinking of going into computer science? 'Go for it!'

Image: Mickael Menard

13 September 2016 | V75 E 10 | Page 14

GREETINGS

from the bench Catherine Fulton

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ello readers, and welcome to the Sex and Gender edition of Sports. 2016 is the year where these kind of themes have become quite prevalent, but for good reason; if you Google sports and click on ‘images,’ chances are that males dominate when it comes to gender representation in sport. As I flick through the channels on TV, I notice that the balance of media coverage between men and women is extremely wobbly; whilst we have come a long way in highlighting the issue surrounding little media coverage for women, the changes still need to be implemented — Castor Semeyna is still hounded by controversy surrounding her gender, and Serena Williams is still regarded as a female athlete, rather than an athlete. As a female athlete myself, I can very much relate to the articles that my writers have written regarding the gender issue in sport. Why does the word ‘athlete’ have a male connotation? Should sports be gender-neutral? These issues occur across the globe.

More awareness, more change.

SPORT

For the Love of the Game Adam Kleinschmidt

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port is one of those wonderful things we just don’t give enough credit, or at least the right kind of credit. By this, I’m referring to the wholesome, accessible and beneficial features to sports: physical activity, unity in adversity, healthy competitive energy, and universal camaraderie.

No matter what the activity is, be it badminton, rowing, wrestling or chess, the engagement between two or more individuals in a thrilling competitive battle is something that is, in most lights, beneficial.

My point here is not to tell you what you know, but rather speak about what you usually ignore: the dark aggression, violence and bigotry behind the scenes. Unless you were living under a rock, you know at least some of what happened at the 2016 Rio Olympics that ended a few weeks ago. Despite all the pomp and ceremony, the devil of discrimination lurked beneath.

After all Ryan Lochte did, after all the abuse that was hurled at Caster, and after all the patronising media reporting, it’s easy to be dissuaded.

How can people operate safely in such an aggressive, bigoted space where a woman is treated like an object by the media and the antics of a rich white male are laid down as ‘goofing off ’ where it was, in reality, illegal?

STUDY LAW AT WITS

Image: Roger Spike Left. David Bunting Right It’s time to challenge this ideal, and shake up the way we perceive bigotry in sports. Too long have we allowed people to face the brunt of racism, sexism, queerphobia and transphobia where they should only face the challenge of the day and the sport itself. Sport should be sacred, protected from the elements of social stigma and aggression.

A Buzzfeed article — yes, I know — alerted me a while back

of a space for anyone to join, no matter what they were, as long as they weren’t bigoted and wanted to enjoy the sport.

This is exactly what I mean: while it isn’t entirely exclusive, it cuts off many who will allow the space to be uncomfortable, aggressive or violent to those who are queer. For once, these people can engage in the sport – one with a history of being anti-queer and anti-trans – for the passion of the pursuit.

Mixed-Gender Sports

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to an interesting event held every two years. The Mark Kendall Bingham Memorial Cup is an all-gay rugby tournament held between teams from various parts of Europe and North America, all with the intention of breaking down the ongoing queerphobia and hyper masculine trends in contact sport. The article took several accounts from players, supporters and organisers, and the overarching ethos was that

he year was 1973, and Billy Jean King was a name synonymous with pro tennis. She was the best female tennis player in the world, and male tennis pro Bobby Riggs wanted to take her on. Why? He believed that it would be easy, as she was ‘just a woman.’ She went on to win the match, and proved that women could easily compete with men.

More than four decades later, the world is still not convinced.

With the 2016 Olympics coming to a close, one of the major talking points of the event, once again, was Caster Semenya’s participation in the women’s athletics. Despite the issue being put to rest years ago, there are still many who question

her inclusion. One of the biggest assumptions that one can draw from this outrage and cries of unfairness is the general assumption that men are physically stronger than women.

There are a few sports in which males and females participate together, such as equestrian, but most popular sports segregate the sexes. Male bodies are built differently to female bodies; there is no disputing that. Yet the differences have been used endlessly in an attempt to fuel the belief that women are the weaker sex. We even see this within women’s tennis, a segregated sport that often has two fewer sets than the men.

There is often the assumption made that if men and women were to play each other in contact sports, such as rugby or football, it would be uncomfortable or dangerous.

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Image: Jian Yi Song

There are flaws in this argument, but it cannot be written off completely.

However, this cannot be used to defend segregation in non-contact sports, such as athletics, swimming or golf. This requires individual training and skills, as no contact occurs when competing. Yet this is still viewed as unfair.

It begs the question: Are these biological differences between the male and female physique more of a social issue than a physical one? We immediately accept the explanation that men are athletically superior, but do not attempt to test these theories on a competitive level. There is also the possibility that females who do not perform at the same level as males do not receive the same amount of funding or training, as they are often overlooked.

We see female athletes, such as Serena Williams, being criticised for their ‘unfeminine’ appearance, whereas male athletes do not have to endure that. This suggests that males who partake in sport are in a more natural position, while females who do are exceptions, or ‘tomboys.’ With such rife stereotypes still existent in sports, it is unsurprising that so few advocate for mixed-gender sports.

The perception that females play sport at an inferior level needs to be abolished. This needs to start at schools, where the seed of segregation is usually planted.

With the rise of activism for gender equality, the male-dominated world of sports needs to be pressured into making major changes.

SPORT BITES sourced from NEWS24 by catherine fulton

SA Paralympic team lost 3 of its competitors The South African Paralympic team is without three of its 2012 champions: Natalie du Toit has thrown in the towel, Oscar Pistorius is caught up in his own struggles, and swimmer Charl Bouwer also isn’t swimming any more. Out of the 45 members, these three had contributed a significant amount of medals, having won 10 of the 29 medals brought home from London.

Thilan Samaraweera appointed as batting consultant On Friday, September 2nd, the former Sri Lankan cricketer became batting consultant for Bangaldesh’s next month’s home series against England. Samaraweera’s employment as coach came only a day after Courtney Walsh, coach of the Bangladesh Cricket Board, agreed to a three-year term as the specialist pace bowling coach.

Adriaan Strauss to retire from test rugby at end of 2016 season.

Since late 2015, Strauss said he had been considering retirement at the end of the season, and had informed Springbok coach Allister Coetzee.

The athlete, who became the 57th Springbok captain against Ireland in June, stated that he was ‘humbled and honoured’ when Coach Allister approached him to lead the team.

‘The plan was for me to serve and lead a team in transition as well as I can and take things week by week, but back then I already told him that I was thinking of retiring at the end of the season,’ Strauss said.

Russian weightlifter Marina Shainova failed drug tests Among six other athletes, Shainova was ordered to return her Beijing 2008 silver medal after she failed drugs tests following a re-analysis of samples from the Games by the International Olympic Committee (IOC). Russia had already been stripped of their 4x400 metres relay silver after Anastasiya Kapachinskaya and Tatyana Firova had also failed a test from the Games earlier this month.

Shelby Labuschagne

F

u Yuanhui. If you do not know her name, you should.

Fu has been praised all over the world by every person who has a uterus/had a period for breaking the general taboo of publicising her period pain. Many a time I have been hushed by my friends/ mother/sister etc. when speaking about the subject, mainly due to embarrassment, as if 95% of females in society do not suffer from these magical things once a month. We are always having to keep it a secret.

Fu was interviewed after her team (China) came fourth in the 4x100m medley relay. ‘I don’t think I performed very well today.

SPORT

13 September 2016 | V75 E 10 | Page 15

Sport and Sexuality in the Media Jess Moore

S

port, particularly at an international level, has the potential to facilitate social transformation and establish national unity. However, South African media’s predominantly heteropatriarchal, gendered and untransformed sports coverage impedes the realisation of this potential.

Numerous studies conducted

by Gender Links and the Media Institute of South Africa reveal that less than 10% of news coverage on sport focus on women, who are chiefly depicted as ‘sexy,’ ‘mothers’ or ‘having a feminine side’, rather than in professional or athletic terms.

Not only does this undermine their sporting achievements, but also implies that women are expected to perform and embody these heteronormative feminine ideals to be considered appropriate national ‘symbols’ and role models for social cohesion and national pride. Conversely, those sportswomen who do not fit neatly into this specified mould are excluded, made invisible by the media, or in Caster Semenya’s case, represented in overlyfeminised terms.

By heteronormative expectations of femininity This representation began when the Olympic gold medallist’s ‘muscular physique’, ‘facial hair’ and ‘deep-toned voice’ prompted the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) to conduct physical tests and genital screening to determine ‘the legitimacy of Semenya’s sex’. Despite the international controversy and debate this generated, South Africa’s media and sporting fraternity advanced a seemingly liberal attitude towards Semenya’s gender

non-conformity. This was shortlived. In an attempt to illustrate her legitimate (heterosexual) womanhood, the media made concerted efforts to feminise Semenya as ‘Our First Lady of Sport.’

For example, in YOU-Magazine’s September 2009 spread, Semenya was visually transformed from a ‘Power Girl’ (athlete) to a ‘Glamour Girl’ (a ‘woman’), wearing makeup, high heels, typically feminine clothes with long, styled hair.

substantive gender inequality that pervades international sport, but also undermines a sportswoman’s right to human dignity and our Constitution’s founding values: non-racialism and non-sexism.

To give full effect to sport’s potential to facilitate social transformation and establish national unity, a greater effort must be made to

combat the divisions and exclusions sustained by heteronormative expectations of femininity advanced by the media. For sport to be more inclusive and equitable, at both material and discursive levels, transformative policies and strategies, and a media committed to achieving substantive equality in sports coverage, are essential.

The media’s re-invention of Semenya

Due to the fact that athletic ability and achievement is stereotypically associated with masculinity, elite women athletes, such as Semenya, who do not display visible feminine and heterosexual markers often face suspicion concerning their gender and sexuality, irrespective of their sporting exploits. Consequently, they have to present themselves as ‘feminine’ (and thus heterosexual), both on and off the sports field.

Antje Schuhmann, a senior Politics lecturer at Wits University argues that the ‘real message’ of the public endorsement and celebration of Semenya was that ‘we support you for the price of reinforcing your sex as female, and as long as you play along we are willing to overlook your masculine gender performance’.

Following this view, such ‘support’ for Semenya, including de-emphasising her athleticism and reinforcing her womanhood, was merely an attempt to muffle international suspicions regarding her ‘true sex or gender’. As a result, the media’s re-invention of Semenya as a traditionally feminine woman is at odds with a progressive attitude towards gender performance.

This is not only indicative of the

Image: Chell Hill

The period taboo I feel I let my teammates down’ Fu said, in an interview after the race. She was asked about whether she was suffering from stomach pains during the interview, and she said: ‘It’s because my period came yesterday, so I felt particularly tired – but this isn’t an excuse, I still didn’t swim well enough.’

Period pain is dismissed by doctorsThe Telegraph has reported on new research that has been done in Sport and Menstruation. This research shows that close to 50% of female athletes find that their periods affect their performance,

and less than 50% of these athletes have sought medical advice about it. This is not surprising, as even something as well-known as period pain is dismissed by doctors — even female ones. I have often gone to doctors to speak about the pain and have been dismissed as ‘fine.’

Even other females have this idea in that it can’t be that bad, because theirs isn’t bad.

Recently, Buzzfeed released a video where people calculated how long they had their periods for. They started by asking the duration of people’s periods: On average a period can last between 2-7 days. Can you imagine athletes taking 3 days off a month to stop training due to their periods? All this time adds up to over a month per year! Often when their periods happen, they just have to power through it and continue

training, with the help of pain killers and muscle relaxants. Next in the video came the calculation about how much periods cost. The amounts that women spent on their periods varied, from about $500 $700 (R7200 – R10 000) annually.

Seeing as most people menstruate for about 30 years after the start of their period, that’s about R300 000 (not including inflation) spent on a period in a life time!

Unfortunately, part of this cost is ‘Pink tax’. Pink tax is when women pay more for the same items as men, simply because they are buying female products. Ingrid Nilsen, a female Youtuber who is an avid feminist and fights for equal rights, brought mention to this global phenomenon when interviewing Barack Obama and questioned why period products were taxed as

luxury items. Ingrid said: ‘I don’t think there is anyone who has a period that thinks it's a luxury,’ and I couldn’t agree more. This quote may seem so trivial, yet it speaks volumes. Once a month I have to run to the pharmacy down the road to get pain medication, otherwise I am convinced I will not survive the next 5 days. I need to make sure that I am stocked up on sanitary items and clean underwear, otherwise things could go horribly wrong. I am also quite certain that if you were to ask someone who can’t even afford the items that I can, they would most certainly agree that their ‘time of the month’ is not a luxury.

It is for the above-mentioned reasons that I think Fu should be talked about more often, as she has made a great start in highlighting the ‘period taboo’ in sport!

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13 September 2016 | V75 E 10

Do You Think There Should be Gender Neutrality in Sport and Why? Morag Brown ‘I think for sports that mainly rely on skill (like archery, tennis etc.) gender neutrality is a good idea.

But for contact sports like rugby or football there's always going to be the problem of hormone and muscle mass differences. But overall yeah, I think people should be allowed to choose if they'd like to compete in gender neutral competitions.’

Ali Taqvi

Kieron van de Laar

Penehafo Nehemia

‘The first thing that pops into my head when I think about it is an unorganised jumble: It would be good.

But guys and girls are genetically different, giving guys the advantage.

But many girls could keep up and beat the guys. It could be good for gender equality. It could be bad for gender equality — if guys regularly beat the girls, it then reinforces the stupid stereotype that guys are better.”

‘I can't think of answering this without hurting men's egos lmao… anyway, I do think that sports shouldn't be gendered because it tends to be very ‘binarist’ and a friend of mine once said when we were discussing this that it also holds back a lot of women, because now instead of being the greatest tennis athlete — people like Serena (who could probably beat ‘what's-his-face’) have to settle for being the greatest female tennis athlete’

‘So I don't think that gender should be neutralised in sports because as sexist as this might sound, I think men are physically built to be stronger and faster than women — which can be proven by the difference in world records set in various sports by the different genders. Therefore I think it's regressive to say women and men should compete against each other.

It would take us back to the 1900s were only 22 out of 997 athletes were women.’

Sané Erasmus ‘I definitely think sports should be gender neutral. Not only will this give anyone the freedom to enjoy any sport they please, but it will challenge misogyny, patriarchy, transphobia and queerphobia in the long run. Once it’s been normalised that anyone can play any sport, harmful stereotypes regarding gender and sexuality in sport will decline.’

Fixtures Friday September 16

SuperSport 1 17:00 - 18:45 – Rugby -Currie Cup - Premier Division Week 7 - Toyota Free State Cheetahs v Xerox Golden Lions 18:45 - 21:00 – Rugby Live -Currie Cup Premier Division Week 7 - Vodacom Blue Bulls v Griquas Saturday September 17 SuperSport 5 11:15 - 12:30 (live motorcycling) FIM Superbike World Championship German WSS Qualifying 12:30 - 14:15 (live motorcycling)FIM Superbike World Championship German Race 1 Supersport select SA 10:00-12:00 live Premier Hockey League Namaqualand Daisies v St Lucia Lakers

Tim Hodgson

Tameron Van Der Sandt

‘I do in certain sports. I think mixed gender sports will help to do away with the bias that makes male sports have more media coverage, more public interest, and more lucrative. It will also make sports a lot more inclusive for gender and sex minorities.’

‘I think it's dependent on the sport.

I think the sports that greater strength gives an advantage need to be split, like rugby. But sports that are more technique-based like squash could be neutral!’

Olga Simanga

‘Sports history would tell us that men were more involved and could participate in any sports possible. It is not because women did not want to, but because of our patriarchal societies where men are believed to be more masculine. Sports have proved to be one of those issues that seem to support non-gender neutrality. However, due to policies and paradigm shifts that demand for equality, women are now more involved in sports such as boxing and cricket. The shift in the thinking allows us to believe that gender neutrality should be more encouraged and that women should be seen equal to men.’

Compiled by Jess Fish

Man, I’m A Part of This Game.

Tanya Magaisa

O

ur initial reaction to the word ‘discriminate’ is to recoil intuitively. We prefer to ‘distinguish,’ or to make a ‘distinction’. It’s like how we prefer the word ‘stationary’ to ‘stagnant’. One has negative connotations while the other doesn’t; either it is neutral or it has positive connotations, but the truth is that to distinguish, to make a distinction and to discriminate are all synonyms. But discriminate makes us recoil. Such is the nature of words.

The sports industry discriminates, both fairly and unfairly. Women cannot run track with men, for physiological reasons.

Most of the time a woman will lose to her long-legged male counterpart when competing in a race, even if they were of the same height and build. He has hormones on his side and muscles she will never obtain.

This is not hyperbolic. This is not a generalisation. This is a fact. It’s not that this applies to all women, as some women can outrun men with legs just as long (or longer) than theirs. I am not one of those women.

The slighter build of women can actually makes them better runners and swimmers. The wind can carry a lighter body better than it can carry his ‘royal testosterone-ness.’

I am not against co-ed teams, and there are certainly sports where the differentiation isn’t really passing the very subjective test of rationality.

When looking at the separate teams for golf, gymnastics, tennis and darts — eh, I can’t really see the justification there. To be honest the progress for equality in the sports industry has been very stagnant. No, not stationary, but very stagnant.

In a physiological sense.

Body wise Now, the male animal is advantaged by biology. Stand a male lion next to a female lion, darn it, stand a tomcat next to a molly. By and large, lest I generalise, men are larger, stronger, faster and harder (in more ways than one) and woman are smaller, weaker, slower and softer, but with a much higher threshold for pain, might I add (he probably couldn’t handle pushing

a whole human being out of his vagina. Ever see a man’s reaction to a splinter? #eyeroll). I mean this in a physiological sense. Body wise. The bodies are not the same. Recognise it, understand it, accept it. This is not an ‘unfortunate truth’. This is just the truth, end of story.

The boy balls hurt to catch

I can play with the best of them.

Kick a ball with a member of the male persuasion, but I’m no longer an 8-year-old tomboy who used to run around with no shirt on and scabs on my knees. When we play, I now have to ask him ‘be soft when you kick it to me.’ I’ve been a goalie on a co-ed football team and I will tell you, the boy balls hurt to catch. They came to me at speeds indicating pain and I am not ashamed to say that I ducked and ran away from the goal post. They took me out of the game.

We lost the game. I was thirteen with growing breasts. Do not judge me, but trust me when I say: my soft and his soft will never be the same.

Contraception 101 Aisha Abdool Karim

T

he Pill: Packets contain birth control pills for 1 month. These pills contain the hormones oestrogen and progestogen, and need to be taken at the same time every day. It functions by preventing the egg from being released, but does not affect your menstrual cycle.

Injection: The injection functions in a similar way to the pill, with an injection of progestogen preventing the egg from being released. However, it can last for 2-3 months, as opposed to having to take a pill every day. The injection may result in an irregular menstrual

cycle and it takes up to 9 months to return to fertility.

Patch: The patch is similar to a plaster that you put on once a week. It can be purchased in a pack, which contains enough patches for the month, and releases hormones that prevent the egg being released.

The patch is worn for 3 weeks, changed weekly, with one week wearing no patch.

Intra-uterine Device (IUD): An IUD is a small device made from plastic and copper, which is inserted into the uterus. This device prevents fertilisation of the egg and can last between 5-10 years, depending on the device. It does not use hormones and can

Aisha Abdool Karim n keeping with the time honoured tradition of allowing men to retain control of sexual intercourse, and sexual activities in general, there is a new male contraceptive available. Vasalgel is an injectable contraceptive which offers men the opportunity to take control of reproductive health. Normally this is the responsibility of womxn, given that they are the individuals who will become pregnant, should alternative protective methods, like condoms, fail. The danger of the creation of male contraceptive method is that it has the potential to detract from a woman’s autonomy over her own reproductive health.

One of the key benefits of contraception, as it currently stands, is that it offers womxn a means through which to protect themselves without relying on men. Currently, the only contraceptive options available for men are condoms and vasectomies. According to a survey released in 2014 by the Human Sciences Research Council, condom use fell to 36.1% in men aged 25-49. Furthermore, a report by AIDS Accountability and Sonke Gender Justice stated that 0.1% of married womxn rely on their partner’s vasectomy as a contraceptive method in subSaharan Africa. Following on these examples, it is clear that the responsibility of contraceptive use cannot be left to men.

While the low uptake of vasectomies may be somewhat understandable, given the permanent nature of the procedure, there is little to explain why condom use is so low. Condoms serve the dual purpose of preventing pregnancy and protecting against HIV and Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs). This is especially in important in a South African environment, where there is a high burden of HIV/AIDS. In a country where HIV prevalence amongst womxn aged 15-24 is five times higher than that of their male peers, we cannot still be expected to rely on male-controlled mechanisms.

With this in mind, it is important to note that the sole concern and purpose behind condom use is not

condom every time you have sex, and condoms should be used in conjunction with another birth control method.

Female Sterilisation: This provides a permanent method of preventing pregnancy for women who do not wish to have children.

It involves a minor surgery to close the fallopian tubes. This will prevent eggs from being fertilised and carried into the uterus.

Vasectomy: This is a permanent procedure performed in men, which involves a minor surgery to close the vas deferens tubes in the testes. This 10-minute procedure stops sperm from entering the testes and is less invasive than female sterilisation.

It requires follow-up sperm testing after 3-6 months to ensure that the procedure was effective.

‘The Morning After Pill’: This is an emergency contraceptive that can be used within 3 days of having unprotected sex. This single dose tablet (sometimes 2, taken at the same time) can prevent an unplanned pregnancy, as it contains progestogen, which stops or delays the release of the egg. There is no limit to the number of times you can take the pill, however it should not be used in place of a regular contraceptive method. It should also be taken as soon as possible after having unprotected sex, as its effectiveness decreases over time.

Say Hello to the Future

Controlling Contraceptives

I

easily be removed, should you wish to fall pregnant.

Implant: The implant is a small rod, which is inserted in your upper arm and slowly releases hormones that prevent the egg from being released. It is cost-effective, as it lasts for 3-5 years, and can be removed at any time, allowing an immediate return to fertility.

Condoms: Both male and female condoms are easily available and are provided for free. Both condoms are made out of latex and act as a barrier, preventing sperm from entering the body. They also serve as dual-protection against HIV and Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs). It is important to use a new

Nicole Arends prevention of pregnancy. While countries, like the United Kingdom and the United States of America, may see a male contraceptive pill as a great alternative to reduce the responsibility placed on womxn, this is not a realistic viewpoint in South Africa. Should male contraceptive become common practice, it may result in decreased use of condoms.

As it stands, condom use in South Africa is already declining, an alarming discovery given the gender disparity of the HIV/AIDS epidemic.

The current environment in South Africa is highly disempowering to womxn. 23.1% of men aged 15-49 report that they have more than one sexual partner, while only 5% of women in the same age bracket report having more than one sexual partner. There is a large proportion of womxn who believe they are in a monogamous relationship, yet their partners may not be faithful.

Given this context, it is difficult for a womxn to rely on their partner to take control of reproductive health, and it will be unclear if their partner is being truthful if they say they are taking a contraceptive pill. It is hard for womxn to take control of sexual practices, thus men may manipulate the situation of using contraception to avoid using a condom. The introduction of Vasalgel, or any other male contraceptive, may serve the opposite effect it is intending.

Young womxn, who bear the brunt of the HIV burden in subSaharan Africa, need to be the focus of contraceptive and other reproductive health methods.

Many of these womxn cannot rely on their partner to engage in safesex practices and may not be in a position to demand condom use, let alone rely on their partner to take a contraceptive pill or get a vasectomy.

We should not encourage an environment where men can retain control of reproductive health through male contraception. It is these disempowered womxn who need to be the focus of future developments in reproductive health. There needs to be a push to create tools which empower women to take control of their own reproductive health, rather than relying on their partners.

L

et’s talk about sex, baby, let’s talk about you and me, let’s talk about all the good things and the bad things that may be …' Well, how about more of the good and less of the bad? The future for safe sex is looking promising and it’s now easier than ever to destigmatise various contraceptives and focus on a future of safe, healthy sex. Yay science!

'The Condom of the Future' Condoms are arguably the most well-known and common form of contraceptives available, imparted to us in even the most PG of Life Orientation lessons. Condoms are great because not only do they protect against unwanted pregnancies, but they also provide protection against sexually transmitted infections.

However, even the greatest of heroes have their flaws. Various studies have shown that condoms have an average breakage rate of 0,4% (i.e. 4 breaks for every 1000 uses). Although this is a pretty great statistic, when it comes to safe sex you don’t want to be taking any chances. And this is where Lelo Hex comes in. Lelo Hex is the brand name of a re-engineered condom designed by Swedish company LELO, which many (including major tech publication TechInsider) are dubbing as 'the condom of the future.' According to LELO, they redesigned the common latex condom by integrating a hexagonal molecular structure which is said to improve strength and durability and is ideally designed to be unbreakable. The

product is already available for preorder on LELO’s official website, with shipment having commenced on 15 August 2016.

Male Birth Control Remember this name, because it may be the answer many have been looking for: Vasalgel. Vasalgel has been in discussion for a while now, but recent developments in testing have shown great success and many experts believe that the process may be up for sale by 2018! So what exactly is this Vasalgel I speak of? It’s really quite remarkable. The US-based non-profit company, the Parsemus Foundation, developed this method which works by blocking the tube that sperm travels down - the vas deferens - with a flexible, spongy, hydrogel material. Vasalgel is said to work as an effective method of contraception for a period of 12 months after being injected.

Although it does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases, it is still revolutionary nonetheless. This process is also said to reversible, with a simple baking soda solution being used to flush the gel out.

H2-Gamendazole Almost as cool as H20, this compound is in the works to take great steps for contraception for the future. Taken by mouth, it is meant to prevent mature sperm from being produced with sperm cells being reabsorbed into the body. Scientists are still working on getting it to be 100% reversible though, but this could be a great addition to the world of safe sex in the future!

Don’t be Basic – Know Your Basics Although the above inventions are fantastic, there are some golden oldies you should never forget when it comes to safe sex. If you need to freshen up - here’s a checklist: Communication is important.

Make sure to always discuss safe sex with your partner and be 100% sure there is consent from both partners – ALL THE TIME. Knowledge is power. Make sure you are informed about various options available for safe sex and if you are sexually active, be sure to have yourself tested (and if needed, treated) for STI’s regularly.

Lubricated latex condoms are the best way to protect yourself against pregnancy or sexually transmitted infections (STIs) when engaging in oral, anal or vaginal sex. Make sure that your condoms are not outdated and inspect for breakage before you use them.

Femidoms (i.e. female condoms) although less commonly used than male condoms, are just as effective in protecting against STIs and unwanted pregnancy. It is important to never use both male and female condoms together, as it increases the chances of either one of them breaking.

Even if your partner is using various other forms of contraception such as birth control pills, it is important to also use a secondary measure of protection such as the male or female condom to protect yourself against STIs.

Image: Bryan Calabro

Let’s talk about sex, baby...3

Lesbian: A womxn who is primarily attracted to other womxn.

Flexisexual:

Somebody who is attracted to and flirts with both sexes, but usually chooses to maintain relationships with just one sex. They don’t identify as bisexual.

Questioning:

This usually refers to the process of exploring and determining one’s own sexual orientation and gender identity.

Ally: This typically

refers to a non LGBT+ person who supports the rights of the LGBT+ community.

Gay: The term

used to refer to a person who is predominantly attracted to members of the same sex.

Although it can be used for any sex, it is typically used to refer to men.

Heterosexual:

A person who is attracted predominantly to members of the opposite sex (often referred to as straight).

Gender identity:

This refers to the sense of ‘being’ male/female/ etc.

It refers to how you experience, express and identify with your gender. For most people, their gender identity matches their physical identity.

Bisexual: (Often

shortened to Bi) A person who is attracted to people of both their own gender and another.

Fluid: Changes

can occur in a person’s sexual orientation.

Someone who is fluid may experience changes in their sexual orientation over weeks, months or years. This does not mean that the person is confused.

Transsexual:

Somebody whose gender identity is different to that of their biological sex. They may undergo medical Cisgender: This treatments to refers to a person change their Gender: The whose experience biological sex and attitudes, of their gender match it to their characteristics and the gender gender identity, and behaviours they identify with or live their lives as that differentiate matches the between masculine another sex. sex they were and feminine. assigned at birth.

These are cultural Sex: As a expectations, biological Polysexual: An assigned by the term, it refers attraction to given culture. to a person’s multiple genders biological or sexes. Bisexuality Compatible behaviour is status. People and pansexuality referred to as are typically are both forms of gender-normative, categorised as polysexuality. non-compatible male, female or Transgender: behaviour is seen intersex at birth, This is an umbrella as gender nonaccording to term frequently conformity. their biological used to refer to those who do not Pansexual: A person who experiences various types of attraction (physical, identify with their emotional, spiritual, romantic) for assigned gender members of all gender types/ or the binary expressions. gender system.

Bi-curious: refers

to a heterosexual person who is interested in having a sexual experience with a person of the same sex. This is done out of curiosity.

Asexual: This term refers to a person who generally does not feel sexual attraction or desire for any group of people.

Homosexual: The clinical term used to refer to people of attracted to members of the same sex. Some people find this term offensive as it has been given a negative connotation.

Genderfluid: This

refers to someone who switches between different expressions of gender. A genderfluid person may express one, many or no specific genders at any given time.

Intersex: This

term refers to people whose sexual anatomy or chromosomes do not match the traditional ‘male’ and ‘female’ markers.

For example, people with both male and female anatomy, or XXY chromosomes.

Let’s talk about sex, baby...4