Word Of The Day: festival lover(s)

Kicking off our polyamory themed vocabulary week with the festival lover - a lover that you take during certain pre-determined and designated times of the year, often during certain festivals. As with all polyamorous configurations, the key to success here is clear communication and boundary setting. A person with festival lovers often has one primary partner with which they are monogamously exclusive for most of the year, apart from these festivals, where they meet up with others (in emotional and/or sexual partnership)

Any of you hitting up any fun festivals this year - for festivities, frolicking, and maybe a little something feistier on the side?

Source: http://polyinlove.wordpress.com/terminology/

Job Listing: Communications Director, MassEquality

[We post job listings for relevant opportunities we think our audience might be interested in under the tag “Job Listings” - all of which can be accessed in the order they are posted by clicking JOB LISTINGS on our sidebar. Check back frequently for the latest updates, and please help disseminate! Also check out The Center for Sexual Pleasure and Health on LinkedIn.]

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Note: This is an excerpted job description. Click this link to read the whole thing.

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Organization Information: Founded in 2001 to promote and protect marriage equality in Massachusetts, MassEquality today is the leading statewide grassroots advocacy organization working to ensure that everyone across Massachusetts can thrive from cradle to grave without discrimination and oppression based on sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. We do this by partnering across issues, identities and communities to build a broad, inclusive and politically powerful movement that changes hearts and minds and achieves policy and electoral victories. Some of our recent accomplishments include: securing creation of the nation’s first statewide commission to address youth homelessness; winning statewide transgender nondiscrimination protections; and ensuring confirmation of the first openly gay judge to sit on the Commonwealth’s highest court.

MassEquality is comprised of three entities: 1) MassEquality.org, a 501(c)(4) responsible for lobbying and public policy advocacy; 2) the MassEquality Education Fund, a 501(c)(3) responsible for educational initiatives; and 3) the MassEquality Political Action Committee responsible for electoral endorsements. MassEquality has a combined budget of over $1M and a dedicated 10-person professional support staff.

Job Description: 

MassEquality is looking for an entrepreneurial Communications Director to develop and implement an organization-wide communications strategy that engages stakeholders across issues, identities and communities, shifts public discourse and opinion, increases supporter engagement and contributes to income goals. MassEquality concluded a strategic planning process in September 2012, which guides all aspects of the organization over the next three years as it continues its transition from a single-issue marriage campaign to a multi-issue social justice organization. The Communications Director will help set and oversee organizational strategy as a member of the senior leadership team and be responsible for all aspects of MassEquality’s communications program, including print and web materials, social media and emerging communications technologies, media relationships and strategic communications planning. The ideal candidate will be able to develop and execute a long-term vision for the communications function within the organization under the new strategic plan while supporting the day-to-day communications needs throughout the organization.

Responsibilities Include:

Leadership and Strategy

  • Develop and implement an integrated, organization-wide, multi-vehicle communications and brand strategy that reflects the organization’s values and mission, engages supporters, future supporters and the general public, shifts public opinion, and supports advocacy and development efforts;
  • Work with staff to ensure powerful messaging and brand consistency across communications vehicles, including the website, email and print materials, reports, social media and collateral;
  • Assist in the development and direction of organizational strategy as a member of the senior leadership team;
  • Create and oversee departmental budget;
  • Manage consultants.

Media and Public Relations

  • Manage press relations: serve as primary point of contact for all media queries; build relationships with editors, journalists and bloggers in local, statewide and national markets and web-based outlets; pitch reporters, editors, producers and columnists; write supporting materials that include media advisories and news releases; write op-eds, editorials, press releases and statements, letters to the editor, fact sheets, blog posts and other collateral;
  • Monitor current events and ensure the organization responds quickly and effectively to breaking news and other external issues;
  • Develop and implement long-term and time-limited, campaign-based social media strategies with a focus on engaging with supporters and building our supporter list;
  • Guide the strategic and consistent use of traditional and social media to support organizational events and public engagement activities;
  • Generate content for and oversee all communications vehicles (websites, print and online materials, social media, e-newsletters, marketing) and provide strategic input on advocacy, organizing and development materials;
  • Write talking points for staff and prepare key staff for interviews;
  • For all communications efforts, track coverage and provide analytics about audiences reached and make adjustments as necessary;
  • Represent MassEquality and its mission in the community;


Required Qualifications: 

  • Three or more years experience working with the media in a political or issue advocacy context;
  • Existing press and media relationships with Massachusetts outlets;
  • Solid knowledge of print and electronic news media, strong news sense and political savvy;
  • Proven ability to develop both comprehensive communications plans as well as successful campaign-based plans to achieve discrete policy goals;
  • Experience pitching and developing strong relationships with traditional and new media;
  • Proven success using social media in today’s media landscape, including Twitter, Facebook, blogs, etc. to advance public discourse;
  • Proven ability to synthesize policy and political information to generate compelling messages for different audiences;
  • Exceptional analytical, strategic and tactical ability combined with expert relationship management skills;
  • Ability to think “big picture” as well as to translate ideas into realistic, actionable plans;
  • Ability to collaborate on projects with staff from other departments, and a high level of personal investment in contributing to the priorities of the organization as a whole;
  • Experience developing and managing work plans and project budgets;
  • Spanish-language proficiency is desirable, but not required;
  • Knowledge of Drupal and Wix a plus;
  • Willingness to travel and work evenings and weekends as projects demand it;
  • Demonstrated experience with LGBTQ issues is strongly preferred; commitment and desire to work in a multi-cultural environment where diversity based on race, ethnic origin, gender, age, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, physical ability, family status and other characteristics is an important and practiced value is essential.

How To Apply: Please forward via email a letter of interest and resume to Otto O’Connor (ottooconnor@MassEquality.org). Position will be open until filled.

Please include “Communications Director Application” in the subject line.

Job Listing: Director of Communications, Rosie’s Place

[We post job listings for relevant opportunities we think our audience might be interested in under the tag “Job Listings” - all of which can be accessed in the order they are posted by clicking JOB LISTINGS on our sidebar. Check back frequently for the latest updates, and please help disseminate! Also check out The Center for Sexual Pleasure and Health on LinkedIn.]

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Note: This is an excerpted job description. Click this link to read the whole thing.

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Organization Information: Rosie’s Place is a sanctuary for poor and homeless women. We provide a wide range of services — permanent housing, overnight shelter, advocacy, meals, adult education such as GED and ESL programs, a microenterprise, a food pantry and more. We accept no government money. More than 1000 people volunteer with us each year, as well as more than 40 interns. We were the first shelter for homeless women founded in the country. We also undertake public policy work, currently focused on increasing state funding to substance abuse treatment programs.

Job Description: 

The Director of Communications is responsible for creating and implementing a multi-faceted communications strategy in order to draw support from the community for the mission of Rosie’s Place – to provide a safe and nurturing environment for poor and homeless women to maintain their dignity, seek opportunity, and find security in their lives. The Director is expected to manage all aspects of Rosie’s Place’s public relations, media relations, and marketing collateral.

 

Responsibilities Include:

  • Develop and oversee annual communications plan, which outlines specific activities and tasks aimed at heightening public and donor awareness of Rosie’s Place and its mission.
  • Secure free media to publicize the programs of Rosie’s Place, and bolster our fundraising efforts. Cultivate relationships with media persons, and work with Rosie’s Place staff to develop and refine Rosie’s Place’s message, as well as generate story ideas. Serve as a representative of Rosie’s Place as needed in public appearances and community relations.
  • Boost Rosie’s Place’s public profile, building upon our strong reputation and brand.
  • Maintain the high quality of our existing printed collateral – newsletters, annual report, brochures, etc., and direct the creation of any new marketing materials. Review all materials created by other Rosie’s Place staff for publication or distribution.
  • Direct online marketing efforts, overseeing social media and the Rosie’s Place website.
  • Manage multi-media campaigns, including video production for Rosie’s Place events.
  • Manage relationships with designers and vendors so that Rosie’s Place brand is appropriately maintained and project vision is achieved.
  • Seek out and manage cause marketing relationships which benefit Rosie’s Place.
  • Supervise Communications Assistant.


Required Qualifications: 

  • Demonstrated ability to develop and implement communications strategies.
  • Excellent writing/editing and verbal communication skills.
  • A strong track record of success in managing multiple projects at once.
  • Ability to take knowledge and transform it into exciting and useful messages, and disseminate it to the right audiences through the best distribution channels.
  • Sincere commitment to work collaboratively with all constituent groups, including staff, board members, volunteers, donors, Rosie’s Place guests, and other supporters.
  • Highly organized, innovative thinker, who thrives in a fast-paced environment.
  • Commitment to social justice, and to forwarding the work of Rosie’s Place through varied communication channels.
  • A minimum of 10 years of relevant communications experience, preferably in a nonprofit setting, and a bachelor’s degree required.

How To Apply: Email cover letter and resume to:

jadlerresumes@rosiesplace.org

Please write “Director of Communications” in the subject line of your email.

Sex Geek Thoughts: Anatomical newsflash:

fuckyeahsexeducation:

youngnostalgia:

The vagina is different from the vulva.

I have heard way too many examples of people using the word “vagina” in place of “vulva” (most commonly and unfortunately variations of “hair on [my] vagina”), and this substitution is not only…

Reblogging for the on-point commentary by Geekingsexuality:

But education is often about simply giving people better words to use about themselves, not insulting them by insinuating they’re so stupid they keep using the “wrong” word.

As sex educators, it’s important for us to recognize that although anatomical accuracy/accuracy in vocabulary is important, empathy & an ability to connect with the people you are trying to teach is equally crucial. The medical terms vulva andvagina refer to distinctly different things, yes, and are often conflated in common vernacular. Accordingly, when we write about things that involve the vulva and/or the vagina, we make sure that we use the correct words to indicate what we are referring to, and would like to guide people towards using the appropriate terminology when they are talking about specific parts of their anatomy.

However, it doesn’t do any good to shut down a conversation by ridiculing or making someone feel uncomfortable because the words they were taught to describe themselves with are not “medically” accurate. If someone comes in with a problem “about their vagina”, and it sounds like they are actually referring to their vulva, we might gently ask, “Are you talking about the entire structure of what’s between your legs, or referring specifically to the canal where penetration occurs? What you’re talking about might actually be the vulva…”. Getting annoyed or haughty because someone uses what might be the only term for their genitals that they have EVER heard before is not only indicative of personal privilege (education), but also a bad way to reach a wider audience.

And on a personal level, they can call their genitals by their vagina, vag, pussy, cunt, or any other word they wish. However you personally choose to identify your parts from a non-medical perspective is your own right.

How the Logic of "Friendzoning" Would Work If Applied in Other Instances:


*Man walks into a store and finds employee*

Man:
Alright, I've had enough. Why haven't you guys hired me?!

Employee:
Uh...well sir, when did you put in your application?

Man:
I never filled out an application.

Employee:
Well sir, we can't consider you for employment if you've never filled out an application.

Man:
No, that's bullshit, because I've been coming here for years now, and every single time I tell you all how much I love this store and how much I appreciate your customer service, unlike some of your other customers might I add!

Employee:
Well, but that doesn't-

Man:
AND I even told you that I didn't have a job!

Employee:
But sir, that doesn't indicate to us that you would like a job at our store. And again, if you've never filled out an application, we can't consider you. Besides, we're not hiring.

Man:
OH! Not hiring, HA! What a laugh. I see your store go through seasonal workers all the time. They come and go like nothing, but you won't consider me as a part-time employee even though I KNOW you've been looking for workers to fill positions? That's insane!

Employee:
Sir, we've been looking to hire a few people for management positions. Do you have any management experience?

Man:
Well no, but what does that matter?

Employee:
...Well sir, that's what we're looking for. You won't be suitable for the position without management experience.

Man:
Oh that's such a load of crap. You know, you'll be waiting around a long time for a manager if you don't lower your standards a little. Who cares if someone knows how to manage a store? I LOVE this store and I'm willing to work here, that's all that should matter to you.

Employee:
That...doesn't make any sense.

Man:
NO! I'm done. This is over. From now on, no more Mr. Nice Guy.

Employee:

Man:

Employee:

Man:
Fuck you, slut.

“Think about this contradiction for a moment. Children are being exposed, day in and day out, to some incredibly wacky and bizarre sexual images and content, and are then passing this information on to other children, yet many parents are worried that school sex education will somehow contaminate their innocent minds with dangerous sexual information. Huh? What am I missing here? These parents argue that they want to be the ones to teach their children about sex and sexuality, and they will be the ones to decide when it should be done. This would be fine, except a majority of parents profess to having considerable difficulty communicating with their children about sex and sexuality, About one third of us fear that talking to our kids about sex will cause them to have sex, another third feel uncomfortable, and the remaining third would prefer that others do the teaching for us. So many of us are really not doing what we claim we want to do – and we are leaving our children at the mercy of sexual misinformation.”

Dr. Fred Kaeser, What Your Child Needs to Know About Sex and When.  (via vaginastuff)

(via vaginastuff-deactivated20121230)

The Sex Ed You Wish They Taught in Schools: How to Bring up BDSM with your partner

sexreeducated:

“What do I do if my significant other is vanilla?”

This is a common situation and one which does not have an easy answer. It is important because, for many of us, it is not sufficient to simply bury our desires and needs for BDSM submission. This article will discuss how to approach your partner…

Great article to round out BDSM week!

(via holisticsexualhealth)

Finding Your Voice: Things To Consider When Addressing Sexual Frustration

thesexuneducated:

I receive hundreds of questions – many of which have a similar theme: “I’ve never had an orgasm during sex!” “I don’t enjoy sex with my partner >___<” “Sex makes me feel guilty”. Although it may not seem so obvious, these three comments usually have something in common. All three of these…

Communication: one of (if not the) most important aspects of enjoyable sex. Check out this post on how to start talking to your partner if you’re having problems.

Carolyn Evans is the author of the book, “Forty Beads,” a token system for couples who want to incorporate more sex into their relationship. The method is this: the man is given 40 beads and the woman is given a “bead catcher.” When he is in the mood, he places a bead in her catcher, and she has 24 hours to respond with sex. As a way of making the sex demand “equal”, the woman also gets cards with sayings like “bead me” which she can leave out for her partner to see. Similarly, as one of the couples mentioned in the interview, there is the option to alternate who is the bead giver and who is the bead receiver. So while this seems like a good system for couples of all backgrounds (not just married heterosexuals, though that seems like that is what the book is tailored to) to incorporate more sex in their relationship, it is problematic in that it removes communication. In the interview, one of the couples states “I think it’s an easy way without having to communicate. You have the beads, you know, to talk for you”. Because that’s what couples who are not sexually satisfied in their relationships need - less communication. What couples need is a system that encourages them to talk openly about their needs and desires. What pleases them, what turns them on, what feels good, what does not feel good. Does anyone else see this as problematic? Does anyone see any solutions? Thoughts?