There are sex toy workshops on campus and a giant inflatable penis in Sidney Smith’s lobby. Some kind of gender studies class project run amok?
No, it’s none other than Sexual Awareness Week, presented each year by the Sexual Education Centre (SEC) as a ramped-up version of the information, activities, and workshops related to the erotic, sexual health, and sexual diversity offered all year at SEC’s offices.
Events kicked off on Monday, with sexual health and sex toys workshops at Hart House. The workshops let the uninitiated and curious in on how and where to buy good sex toys, as well as possible homemade ideas to save some cash.
Yesterday, volunteers were stationed inside Sid Smith, all dressed up in an array of feathers and lace, short skirts, and dog collars, and even some Minnie Mouse gloves-“Anything we feel is sexy,” as volunteer Kat Letwin said. “It’s about just being open and proud of it.” Once the costumes got people’s attention, the curious were directed to a table packed with pamphlets and sex information, free condoms to promote safe sex, and a donation bottle for AIDS awareness campaigns.
The group of volunteers say that there has been a mixed reaction to their display, but they are all having a great time and are proud of their work.
“There are people who love it, and those who are trying to keep away from us, but that’s okay,” said the organization’s two-time publicity co-ordinater. “SEC’s purpose is to be there so that people can make educated decisions. We provide resources and information for those who need us, and we’re also out to have some fun.”
The sex fest continues tomorrow with the second annual Truth or Dare Karaoke at O’Grady’s bar on College St. SEC plans to give away over $600 in sex toys and novelty items as prizes, as well as free food. All proceeds from the $3 minimum cover will go to the Toronto Rape Crisis Centre.
The week also spills over into Monday, where an erotic reading with Helena Settimana will be held at The Women’s Centre on Spadina Ave. Settimana is a distinguished author of erotica who will read a series of her short stories.
Fear not if you can’t attend these events, as SEC stresses that this week is only the beginning of ways to get involved. The centre offers on-demand workshops akin to those run early this week. Dons in many of the residences run them at different times throughout the year, and students can go online at sec.sa.utoronto.ca and fill out a form to request them. Advice, condoms, and all things related to sexual health are also available on the website and at the SEC office at St. George and Hoskin Ave.
“This week is all about awareness of sexual health,” says the co-ordinater, “but it is also about awareness of SEC and the great services we offer.”
