Connectivity is a publication of FORGE (For Ourselves: Reworking
Gender
Expression). FORGE is a national education, advocacy and support
umbrella
organization supporting FTM+s(1) (female-to-male transsexuals and
transgenderists, and others who were assigned female at birth but who
have
some level of masculine identification) and SOFFAs (Significant
Others,
Family, Friends and Allies).

Connectivity is devoted to exploring one topic in-depth each issue,
and
reporting on developments of interest to the trans+/SOFFA community.
In
this issue, we are focused on exploring, expanding, and deepening
discussion and dialogue within the FTM+/SOFFA community on Sexuality
Issues.

****** The DEADLINE for this edition is: April 30, 2003 ******

All trans+/FTM+/SOFFAs are invited to submit articles, resources,
calendar
events, poetry, erotica, fiction, non-fiction, interviews, cartoons,
anecdotes, news briefs, personal stories, etc. on this topic for the
newsletter. There is no length requirements or restrictions (longer
pieces
may be published in installments and/or shortened in conjunction with
the
author), and you need not be a published or polished writer to
submit. The
newsletter is an open, uncensored forum for all Trans+/FTM+/SOFFAs.
FORGE
especially welcomes contributions from those who are not always heard
from
within the FTM+ community, including--but not limited
to!--"non-traditional" FTMs, genderqueers and radicals, SOFFAs,
butches,
transsensual femmes, androgynes, male SOs, drag kings, etc.

Submissions can be emailed to michael munson/Loree Cook-Daniels at
editor@forge-forward.org or faxed to 414-278-6034, or mailed to FORGE
at PO
Box 1272, Milwaukee, WI 53201.

DESCRIPTION:
Sexuality is a core component of many adults' (and teens') lives.
Whether
we choose abstinence/celibacy or being sexual only with ourselves, or
seek
relationships with others (committed long term relationships,
anonymous
interactions, flirtations, long or short term "tricks"/"fuck- buddies",
monogamous or polyamorous relationships), FTM+s/SOFFAs may approach
sexuality differently than those who have no trans-involvement. Issues we hope to cover in this issue include:
~ exploring our bodies - self love and sexuality
~ crusing and flirting
~ trans+ erotica
~ evolving and/or shifting sexual orientation(s)
~ changes in libido and/or sexual interest(s)
~ culture clashes of mixed orientation "expectations" (what people
expect
based on previous orientation experiences)
~ SM as a tool for expanding and exploring gender/roles
~ BDSM as a component of or full sexual identity
~ learning about non-trans male bodies
~ tools and tips for greater sexual satisfaction
~ negotiation with partner(s) - discussion of comfortable erogenous
zones
and mutual pleasure
~ sex clubs, segregated bars/organizations, and navigating only
spaces
~ safer sex techniques and negotiation


****** The DEADLINE for this edition is: April 30, 2003 ******

Our upcoming issues will focus on:
Only Space
Hormones
Rituals

Submissions for these editions are welcome at any time
Past FORGE newsletters can be viewed on the web at www.forge- forward.org


(1) FTM+ or a "+" next to any word, is the way FORGE chooses to show
respect and inclusion for people who step outside of the box, or who
identify in ways that are not overtly listed or addressed in this
publication. People are much more complex than a set of words and
labels.
"+" indicates an expansiveness that words cannot capture, recognizing
and
welcoming the beautiful diversity within our community.

__________________
Until you've lost your reputation, you never realize what a burden it was or what freedom really is. --Margaret Mitchell