How do we talk about sex? Language and the Lexical Limitations of Lust

Fishnets by Fenchurch!, http://www.flickr.com/photos/fenchurch/6026545/

The first process in cultivating a positive, shameless and joyful relationship with sex is having a language that actively and accurately describes pleasure. But what is to be done when the very core of our lexicon is steeped in archaic implications that stop delight before you can even unbutton your jeans?

July 22 Report Back Gathering Brings USSF Immigration Discussions from Detroit to Oakland

A poster seen in Detroit Michigan during the U.S. Social Forum.

For Oaklanders that couldn't make it to Detroit for the U.S. Social Forum in June, the "Making Contact" radio show, of the National Radio Project, is bringing together community groups to discuss some of the highlights of the conference, particularly surrounding issues of immigration.

INOAK July 15 Mixer: Forum for new ideas, conversation about Oakland's tech development

INOAK is hosting their first meet-up this week.

Innovation Oakland - INOAK - is hosting it's first ever meet and greet this Thursday, July 15. Enjoy Levende East’s new American cuisine over conversation aboutimproving and facilitating the development of Oakland--and bringing tech and digital media companies together.

What Does Sex Positivity Mean for Oakland? One OL Staffer Tries to Figure It Out

i want sex, street art by Boris Hoppek, http://www.flickr.com/photos/streetart/110636767/

During my time as an intern with Oakland Local, I have found that sex-positive energy is alive and well on this side of the Bay. Oakland has a strong role in the global community of people working to promote positive attitudes about sex, with many educators and events finding roots in our side of the Bay. 

"Lost and Found" Exhibit Highlights History of Neon Signage in Oakland

Photo by Neocles Serafimidis

The history of Oakland can be chronicled in many ways. Photographers have captured the quintessential culture of Oakland in an exhibit that documents neon signage.

Fresh Steps Brings Electro-Soul to Table This Month

Photo courtesy of Fuxwitit Entertainment.

Isis Genesis will break down the barriers of traditional conceptions of soul music while headlining Fresh Steps this week.

Spend the Summer with the Oakland Museum of California!

Photo courtesy of Tony Nguyen/Yung Grasshopper

The Oakland Museum of California gears up for summer with new hours and exhibits.

Charcoal Park Community Garden Hosts Fundraiser on Saturday

Photos courtesty of Charcoal Park. Charcoal Park opened in April on Earth Day.

Sip on some freshly squeezed lemonade and join neighborhood families in a celebration and fundraiser for Charcoal Park.

Movement for Change: Dance on behalf of oil and water this week at Interplay

Photo courtesy of Interplay, Carly Rosen.

Asking an Interplay artist to describe his or her work is similar to asking a Buddhist to describe the great complexities of his or her religion - it is not an easily articulated concept.

Keeping it Quirky: Unite to celebrate the whimsical at the Temescal Street Fair

Photo courtesy of Karen Hester. A street view of a past Temescal street fair.

Join Oakland locals in Temescal this Sunday at the seventh annual Temescal Street Fair. The fair has some new features this year including a waiter's race, fashion show and a "green zone."