You are certainly correct, leftcoastcouple, in saying that there are
occasionally some "neutral and positive" articles, but as you said, these are generally from the alternative papers and such. And, too, California as I understand things, tends to be far more liberal than a huge portion of the country. Even in the article you referenced, the following statement was made..."It has inched into more mainstream and upscale circles, he says, but for many there remains a fear of condemnation.
"In 25 states, you can run for office and be openly gay, but if you come out and say you're married and that you have sex with other couples, you won't get elected," Gantz said.
...again showing the stigma of swinging.
As for TV shows and such...I'm one of these strange people that does not have cable TV, so I don't really know what happens there other than what I hear. But I wonder how swinging would be portrayed on 48-Hours or 60 Minutes...or others. And the Dallas Morning News? I wouldn't even want to be around to see that!
All in all, except with some rare exceptions, I still believe the media does a great deal to stigmatize swinging in the negative direction...that is what the majority of people want to hear. And thus, swingers are evil creatures for most.
But you know...our society, while making great strides, has not gotten to the point that people (not all, of course) can except sex as something fun...pleasurable...something to be enjoyed. Men still sneak around on Valentines day to purchase sexy nighties for their wives...embarassed to be seen in Victoria's Secret. We are cautious of purchases made online. We want to be certain they come in plain brown wrappers with no identifying names! Even Playboy...a magazine that by most current standards is exceedingly tame.
Is it right? Nope! And I sometimes wish I could be more honest and open even about my own sexuality...but unfortunately, we all have to exist on a daily basis with neighbors, friends, and family.
Slowly we will make strides, but ever so slowly, I'm afraid.
- EBF
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