Sex is an idea with which America continues to have an uneasy relationship. Parents covered their children’s eyes when Elvis Presley wildly gyrated his hips on live television while performing “Hound Dog” in the 1950s, unwilling to accept the emergence of a generation that was much more willing to express its sexuality. But these baby boomers and their children still cringed and expressed outrage via social media and on morning talk shows when Miley Cyrus infamously twerked on stage at the Video Music Awards show. Clearly, the United States has made some progress. But how much?

Throughout The Pitt News’ sixth annual Sex Edition, you’ll read stories about how the Internet has liberated many people whose sexual desires were previously oppressed by socially constructed standards for what is considered inappropriate. In fact, the changing definition of what is considered appropriate in sex, fashion and the media in society is a common theme throughout this edition. In the process of perusing it, you’ll notice a common historical trend: Women asserting themselves as individuals with desires that should no longer be kept silent. We also include mens’ perspectives on issues such as spending on dates and the lack of birth control options for men.

This edition, however, isn’t confined to commentary on the physical act of sex. Our writers have also written about the changing nature of relationships, including how interracial couples still face some level of scrutiny in the year 2014. Progress has been made, but it’s clear that we still haven’t overcome the prejudices of our nation’s past.

As is the case with any of our daily editions, we invite readers to submit their own responses to our articles, regardless of whether the feedback is negative or positive. That is, of course, our goal: Promoting dialogue for a subject that has been considered taboo for so long.

Sincerely,

Patrick McAteer

Pitt News Editor-in-Chief