I’m doing a research project on Katharine McCormick, Margaret Sanger and the development of the first oral contraceptive for women. It’s for my Women in America class, which is incredible, by the way.

But here’s a direct quote from one of the articles I’m reading at the moment, concerning the extreme controversy surrounding contraceptive research. Congress actually barred major US institutions from studying it because it was ‘obscene.’ 

“By contrast, the sexual implications of Viagra had begun as a genuine side effect that soon became the driving force in development, and the key clinical trials were done in the US without controversy by clinicians eager to undertake the research. Perhaps the only similarity on the commercial development of the two drugs was in the enthusiasm of the volunteers, whether poor Puerto Rican women suddenly released from the burden of unintended pregnancy, or older men restored to a few hours of youthful pleasure.” 

Like, ew. I’m not sure why I should be so surprised- after all, women and their reproductive freedom still face this kind of issue today. Scientists and our culture as a whole have no problem with Viagra, but mention birth control and everyone loses their shit. 

For those of you who might want to read more of it, here’s the link to the article: 

http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0160932703001030

Why does this still happen? TOTAL misinformation on her part. This is why I’m an activist..

Thoughts on the Creative Career (by zefrankenfriends)

So, since I am a writer/poet/whatever myself, I thought I would share this with all of you lovely people. He has some great thoughts on how to not be absolutely terrified at the idea of creating your own stuff…..and some other things. If you like to create, watch it! If you don’t think you’re creative, watch it! Everyone, watch it! :) 

Oh hey! Here’s a song I dig. Listen to it. <3

“Your Life, Your Call”, from upcoming self-titled Junip album, out this Spring on City Slang in Europe and Mute Records in North America. 

Rusty Clanton - Ribs and Things (by rustyclanton)

His music is so heartwarming. Making my day a little better, bit by bit..

I haven’t posted in forever….but something has made me very happy recently in my life, and that is this song, and I would like you all to listen to it. Right now. Like, seriously. 

(Source: Spotify)

giggle-root:

Dave Matthews Band - The Riff

musicalbums:

Keane | Somewhere Only We Know

(Source: , via reybek)