All throughout campus, we, the staff of the Tan & Cardinal, have heard both positive and negative responses in regard to the new sex column, “Between the sheets.” We now realize the importance of noting why exactly we have decided to actively pursue and publish this column.
Why publish a sex column?
“Between the sheets” is not only a column that applies to college students, but also interests them. Let’s be honest — in general, we college students like to think about sex. We like to talk about sex. We like to have sex.
So, why wouldn’t we do a column focused on such a relevant subject, especially because talking about sex with your partner is so important?
Additionally, the column is intended to focus on a variety of less-talked-about subtopics. People should be comfortable reading and talking about sex. Whether it’s discussing it with your doctor, your partner or your friends, the subject is bound to come up eventually.
The first column, “Piercing pleasures,” was on a subject that isn’t typically discussed. When was the last time you discussed Prince Alberts while sipping mochas from the Otter Bean?
At the same time, the topics chosen are ones that are not only found to be interesting, but also relevant. The column in this issue, “Post-coital contraceptives,” addresses the recent trend of utilizing Plan B in response to whatever happened the night before that could potentially result in a pregnancy.
One of the other purposes of “Between the sheets” is to provide expert opinions and safety tips in regard to sexual situations.
People need to be informed about potential hazards when it comes to something like piercing your clitoris — and this might not be a discussion you wish to have with your certified piercer as you anxiously await on the table for your piercing.
Why Dennison Sleeper?
Sleeper was given the opportunity to write the column because he has proven to be a resourceful writer who can tactfully discuss serious issues while mixing in some light humor. His writing has a strong voice and he takes the time to do research for his articles so that the facts are accurate.
Sleeper said, “I believe it is important to increase our awareness of our sexuality in a mature, lighthearted way so that we become more comfortable discussing these things with our friends, loved ones and health care professionals. If you believe you lack the maturity or intelligence to handle this topic, then I suggest you draw over my article in crayon to make it more appealing as you ignore it.”
What won’t you see in “Between the sheets”?
You will never see a first-person account of having sex. The intent is not for Sleeper to discuss his personal experience, nor do we wish to read that. The column will never publish any tips or “how-to” stories about enhancing your sexual experience.
Additionally, the column is not solely meant for heterosexual couples and will not discriminate against other types of couples. Though some issues, like Plan B, pertain specifically to heterosexual sex, the general concept of the column is to be informative for people of all genders and sexual orientations. Ultimately, “Between the sheets” will focus on being tactful and informative, not sleazy.
Going forward, what can we expect out of “Between the sheets”?
“Between the sheets” will continue to address issues relevant to college-aged students, so we won’t be publishing anything about Viagra.
The column is intended to discuss topics that people may not necessarily be informed about, which is why the focus of the column isn’t on things like “how to have safe sex” or “the dangers of STIs.” There is a plethora of easily accessible information on those subjects, and the column is focused on presenting information on more taboo matters.
The staff is dedicated in ensuring that the column will address interesting and pertinent issues in a mature and personable way.
A post in response to Sleeper’s article on Otterbein360.com states, “I applaud Dennison Sleeper in bringing up this issue and stepping out of the standard boundaries that school news writers typically feel they must restrain themselves to.”
It’s true, this column pushes the envelope a little bit, and it will surely continue to do so as we continue to explore relevant topics that take place between the sheets.
