Wrap up tasteless condom ads

I am writing about the Durex condom advertisements distributed in the IDS a couple of weeks ago. I am shocked and saddened that these ads were deemed acceptable to distribute to the public in a college newspaper.

I want to start by saying that I am in no way against condoms themselves, or other forms of birth control; on the contrary, I think it’s shocking how little they are available to college students in the residence halls on this campus. Safe sex and safe relationship practices are of the utmost importance for so many reasons.

I do, however, take offense to obscene advertising. The headline of the ad states, “Major in sex and you could score $25,000 and a $2 lift for your ‘studies.’” Major in sex? What happened to sex for love? Or at least with dignity? Has it really been relegated to the level of prostitution? A business commodity? I knew the hookup culture was getting out of hand, but even I was appalled by this.

On the back is a drawing of a man in the back seat of a convertible with two topless young women. Whipped cream, strawberries and bananas are clearly labeled in case anyone was dense enough not to understand the obvious implications of the situation. Apparently this is what women are worth these days, and I am so offended that this portrayal got the stamp of approval, not only from the condom company but also the IDS.

What a sad picture of womanhood we college girls (and guys) are getting. Is this what women’s lib has given us? The right to act like sluts and be portrayed and treated as such? How are girls going to learn to engage in behaviors respectful to themselves if this is what they are told is acceptable? How are young men going to learn to respect us if this is what they think we all are? This is not OK.

Emily Walsh
IU junior