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The world, gay males, in particular, have been at war with HIV and AIDS for over three decades now. Even more frightening, the virus is spreading at three times the national rate here in New York City. And, let's not forget the vast collection of non-lethal-but-still-extremely-uncomfortable other transmissible infections attacking the human race. It ain't pretty.

I can't speak for the entire city, of course, but I know that I've been educated about the dangers of unprotected sex since I was old enough to masturbate. Even without the risk of pregnancy in the picture, I can't imagine how someone could not realize the necessity of the condom.

Nonetheless, these infections continue to spread, which means someone is not doing their job.

For some reason, many people, gay and straight, seem to think it is perfectly acceptable to participate in unprotected (or "bareback") sex, putting both themselves and their partner(s) at risk. I don'' know if this comes from a lack of education, a lack of reality, or simply a lack of caring. But it's never okay.

I have never had penetrative sex without a condom. And, I have no desire to. If I'm cruising online, and I get hit up by someone who lists 'sometimes' or 'when appropriate', I never respond. It's not the most reliable protection method in the world, but it's a start. And if you say 'never', well, I must say that I do not wish you well.

I do not give a single fuck if you think it feels better. Hell, I don't even care if you have a latex allergy; you have alternatives out there. No excuse.

There are undoubtedly a wide variety of contributors to this epidemic, and, at the top of the list, I blame pornography.

The word 'bareback' alone seems to be enough to deserve a click from many gay men. And even if it's not in a video's description, I find myself having to play 'spot the condom' way, WAY too often.

What truly disgusts me is that porn stars who don't use condoms actually get paid MORE by the companies. This is most certainly the most abominable business tactic I've ever heard of in my entire life. What's worse is that it's only by a few hundred dollars. If you're going to put someone's life at risk, I think you owe them a little more than that. I'm no pornographer myself (yet), but I imagine I'd be more willing to CUT a performer's pay for barebacking, rather than increase it.

This issue is the primary reason I have so much respect for Michael Lucas of Lucas Entertainment. Say what you want about him, because I'm sure he's got something fucked up about him in there somewhere, but I admire him a great deal for his strong vocal opposition to barebacking in porn. He recognizes his duty to set a good example, and refuses to hire any actors who have done bareback work in the past (although there have been some reported slip-ups). It's nice to see that someone in the spotlight is taking some responsibility.

However, I think porn needs to take another step forward in the advocacy of sexual health. Pornographers need to stop glorifying raw penetration and show the world that safe sex is sexy. Viewers need to see not only the use of condoms, but the *application* of condoms. These magic phantom condoms we see appearing out of nowhere and disappearing at ejaculation time are not enough.

So the next time you intend to plunge into the depths of another (consenting) human body, whether it's a monogamous partner, friend with benefits, or even a one-night stand, show your partner you care: cover your cock!

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