Voltare
Posts: 841
Joined: 1/1/2004 From: Santiago, Chile Status: offline
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I'll prefece this post, by saying I know that race is a delicate and hot issue. It's almost as volitile an issue as abortion, and I have no intention of engaging in a flame war for what I'm about to say. I respectfully request that anyone who chooses to respond to my post here, to do so without the use of profanity or inciteful language. Agree, or disagree - it's just a message board. I am a white male dominant 27 years of age, who grea up in a small, mostly white town. I have worked with people of many different races, colors, and religions most of my adult life, and while my personal views may appear to kowtow towards the politically correct center, I believe in them VERY strongly. An announcement regarding a real time group that meets weekly was immediately responded to by a rather aggressive post regarding the idea that there would be a BDSM group for people of color. I did not see anywhere in the announcement or website that specifically excluded whites (or other races) and, in fact, language to the effect that anyone who wished to join was welcome was included, and specifically stated you do not need to be black or hispanic to post in their newsgroup. I think there are a few issues at hand. The first, is the concern for racism, and reverse discrimination in the lifestyle. The specific announcement did not appear to be racist in nature, but rather an offer for those who have an interest in issues that specifically affect people of color to get together to talk about the issues. Pretending race does not play a role in BDSM roles, titels, or beliefs, to me, is a lot like putting a bag over your head. I believe race DOES play a role - positively and negativel. Last night, I was speaking to a white sub with a black dominant, who stated she loved the contrast in their skin colors, that it was quite erotic to her. Also, she felt more comfortable with black men, because she (in her words) had a big butt, and felt black men appreciated it more. On the other hand, the stigma of using the words 'master' or 'slave' - for obvious reasons - is worthy of discussion. I know of black women who enjoy the kink behind such racial degradation, and I know of black women who absolutely cannot tolerate the thought of calling a man Master. I see more then a few profiles advertising looking specifically for black Dominants, and equally as many seeking only a white Dominant. Obviously the combinations are endless. The second issue, in my mind, is that of racism in general, and the sense that promoting one racial, ethnic, or cultural event somehow precludes the celebration or appreciation of any other group - that by celebrating black history month or hispanic history month, we are somehow discriminating against caucasians. Personally, I don't see this as discrimination. I think any 'theme' that encourages people to learn about other types of people are fine. We have Polish fetivals, Irish parades, and celebrate english holidays to boot. In the town I grew up in, we celebrated "Danish Festival" yet it didn't matter what race you were, to enjoy the theme. The belief that celebrating one groups heritage somehow results in discrimination or exclusion of other races is where I see there misunderstanding. It's the militans, radicals, and other abusers of power on both sides of the racial card that perpetuate this sense of 'hate' if you ask me, because creating this sense of fear and paranoia is what perpetuates these people's power. I think any group that encourages people to learn more about the lifestyle is excellent. I can certainly imagine individuals who might not feel comfortable going to a typical munch, for fear of being the only black person there and being singled out (or worse) but would be more willing to attend a group specifically meeting their needs (and concerns.) I don't see growth as a bad thing, so long as the groups involved do not advocate discrimination. In this particular case, all I see is a group that seems to be committed to education and enjoyment of everyone who chooses to attend their gatherings. Stephan
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http://www.vv3b.com/ "There is always some madness in love, but there is always some reason in madness." - F. Nietzsche
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