Dismissing what we were all taught in our eighth-grade health classes, MTV is doing away with the age-old mantra of “Just Say No” to sex, and is instead promoting the campaign launch of something quite similar to what Meg Ryan so eloquently expressed in that famed When Harry Met Sally diner scene: say “Yes, Yes, Yes!” To any and all sex. As long as it’s safe.
Yesterday, at the Apartment, Solange Knowles was announced as ambassador to the campaign. In addition to the free Durex condoms up for grabs, the attendees were granted the chance to hear her speak on the subject at hand: sex. In an attempt to “collectively make it less uncomfortable to talk about,” the 22-year-old singer and mother admitted to “anticipating the day” she’d have to have the awkward conversation with her own son. Referencing her own childhood, Knowles said, “My parents gave me, what I like to call, the ‘Real Deal Holyfield’….Growing up, there are two sets of campaigns: that abstinence is the best policy, and others tell you to use a condom.”
Citing the election of Barack Obama into office as inspiration, Knowles explained that she and friends (notably Jurnee Smollett) recently held a powwow inside a living room: “We wanted to do something that made us feel the importance of serving,” she said. And so, Knowles decided to use her fame as a means to delivering a message. “Artistry is true expression, but you can’t expect all of us to be role models. Even if we’re shoved into the limelight, we make mistakes….[But] this generation is coming back around [in terms of using] music as a platform to reach out on issues. The past 10 years have had a bad rap, but we’re coming back around.”
The Body Shop, in partnership with MTV Networks, is challenging the under-25s of the U.S. and internationally to take a stance and make a promise (or three) via their newly-live website. Each visitor is asked to take pledges that will seal their avowal in protecting themselves from HIV/AIDS (of which over 33 million people worldwide are living with now, and over 3,000 new infections are found daily in adults aged 15 to 24). First, to talk openly and honestly about sex; second, to get clued in about risks and preventative measures; and lastly, to personally practice safe sex.
But if you don’t feel comfortable making promises to the same network that thrives off catching Real World castmates hook-up under the sheets, you can do your part by buying the newly-available promotional product, Tantalizing Lip Butter. Priced at $8, more than half of every purchase will benefit the Staying Alive Foundation.
Yes, Oui, Si, Da…That’s the affirmative in four languages. Now, what’s your excuse?
- Danielle Cheesman
