Le Shaw, the International Sexual Health and Wellness Research Institute, proudly announces its partnership with SWOP Behind Bars, a national social justice network dedicated to advocating for the fundamental human rights of sex workers, victims of trafficking, and their communities, with a particular focus on those currently incarcerated.

SWOP Behind Bars works tirelessly to support incarcerated sex workers, providing resources and advocacy to help them navigate the criminal justice system and reintegrate into society. Le Shaw will enhance SWOP Behind Bars’ efforts to promote human rights and reduce stigma by contributing with its research expertise and industry knowledge.

When asked about the partnership, Bobbi Bidochka, Director of le Shaw, expressed her enthusiasm: “SWOP Behind Bars’ activities are crucial in supporting some of the most marginalized members of the sex work community. By joining forces, we can amplify our impact and promote justice and well-being for incarcerated sex workers to advocate for systemic change.”

For more information about le Shaw and its partnership with SWOP Behind Bars, please contact bobbi.bidochka@byborgenterprises.com.

Welcome to June issue, where we explore the transformative impact of technology and cultural shifts across various industries. This edition features four captivating chapters that highlight significant developments in Tech & IT, Self-Care & Sexual Wellness, Finance & Business, and Beauty & Lifestyle.

In the Tech & IT section, we delve into the innovative ways Virtual Reality (VR) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) are reshaping industries. Cryos International is pioneering the use of VR in sperm donation to enhance donor experiences and improve sample quality. Meanwhile, a study using AI reveals key factors in problematic pornography use, providing valuable insights for prevention and treatment. These technological advancements underscore the profound impact of VR and AI in addressing complex issues and improving user experiences.

Our Self-Care & Sexual Wellness chapter pays tribute to historical and contemporary figures fighting for equality and protection of marginalized communities. We revisit Josephine Butler’s courageous campaign against invasive laws targeting women in the 19th century, highlighting her lasting impact on gender equality. Simultaneously, we spotlight the rising threats faced by LGBTQ+ librarians amid escalating book bans and physical attacks, emphasizing the ongoing struggle for safe and inclusive spaces.

In the Finance & Business section, we explore the burgeoning adult gaming industry and the launch of Go.Cam, an open-source age verification system. The adult games market, featuring insights from experts at Nutaku, Erolabs, Anduo Games, and Texic, is ripe with potential and creativity despite challenges like high production costs and demand. Go.Cam addresses concerns over minors’ exposure to sexual content by offering a secure, privacy-respecting age verification solution, setting a new standard in online safety.

Our Beauty & Lifestyle chapter examines the vibrant resurgence of Y2K fashion and delves into the often misunderstood world of foot fetishes. Y2K fashion is making a comeback, now with a focus on body inclusivity, challenging outdated beauty standards. Additionally, we explore the allure of foot fetishes, emphasizing the importance of consent and mutual enjoyment in sexual desires, helping to demystify this common preference.

Through these articles, we aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of how technology and cultural shifts are redefining various sectors. We hope these insights inspire a deeper appreciation for innovation, inclusivity, and the ever-evolving landscape of human expression.

Read the full magazine here

The Supreme Court announced on Monday that it will decide if states can prohibit gender-affirming care for minors. This decision, expected next term, will affect laws in over two dozen states that restrict or criminalize transgender minors’ access to healthcare. The ruling will also determine if laws targeting transgender individuals are constitutionally questionable.

There is a chance the Supreme Court could surprise by mandating equality for trans Americans and their families. However, it seems more likely that the court will uphold bans on gender-affirming care for minors, potentially stripping constitutional protections from all transgender people across the country. This significant case marks the next civil rights showdown, coinciding with the second anniversary of Dobbs.

The case, U.S. v. Skrmetti, challenges a Tennessee law that prevents healthcare professionals from providing puberty blockers and hormone therapy to minors based on sex. These treatments, endorsed by leading medical associations, are essential for children with gender dysphoria. Tennessee’s ban is part of a wave of legislation by Republicans to enforce a narrow definition of gender, accompanied by laws banning drag performances and penalizing those who assist minors in obtaining gender-affirming care out of state.

Last year, transgender minors and their parents sued to block Tennessee’s healthcare ban, arguing it violates their 14th Amendment rights. The plaintiffs claimed the state ban infringes on parents’ right to make medical decisions for their children and discriminates against minors based on sex. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the 6th Circuit rejected these claims by a 2–1 vote, stating the due process clause does not protect the right to gender-affirming care and the equal protection clause is not violated as the law does not constitute sex discrimination.

The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) and the ACLU litigated this case, with the Supreme Court granting only the DOJ’s petition. The DOJ argued that Tennessee’s ban discriminates based on sex. The Supreme Court’s decision will address whether anti-trans discrimination constitutes sex discrimination under the 14th Amendment, requiring stringent justification for such laws.

A broad decision could affect not just gender-affirming care but also other laws limiting transgender rights in sports, public bathrooms, housing, education, and more. If the court rules that anti-trans laws trigger heightened scrutiny, these measures will be constitutionally suspect. A decision otherwise could uphold most discriminatory laws, erasing constitutional protections for transgender people.

There is cautious optimism based on the 2020 Bostock v. Clayton County ruling, where the Supreme Court found that discrimination against transgender individuals is based on sex. However, this case involved a statute, not the Constitution. While there is a possibility the court could extend Bostock’s reasoning, the current conservative majority may be reluctant to expand LGBTQ+ rights.

Both the DOJ and the ACLU urged the Supreme Court to take up Skrmetti as the last hope against the proliferation of restrictive laws. Despite the risks, they hope the court will recognize Tennessee’s law as sex-based discrimination. However, given the court’s conservative leanings, it is uncertain if they will protect the rights of transgender individuals.