Political and Social Commentary through Erotic Themes
Crush is an adult magazine published in Canada since 1986. It features explicit photos and stories aimed at a mature audience, exploring topics related to sex, sexuality, gender, LGBTQ+ community, fetish, kink, BDSM, body image, pornography, erotica, romance, intimacy, and more. While many publications focus solely on sexual pleasure and fantasy, Crush takes a unique approach to connect these themes with political and social issues.
The first issue of Crush was released just before the Ontario provincial election, where right-wing candidates were campaigning against the legalization of gay marriage. In response, Crush published articles that challenged homophobia and advocated for equality and acceptance, including a story about a same-sex couple who overcame family disapproval to live their lives openly as lovers. This marked the beginning of a tradition in which the magazine would tackle controversial topics using eroticism as its vehicle.
In subsequent issues, Crush covered censorship, freedom of expression, and media manipulation by publishing nude artwork and unconventional love stories that pushed boundaries and provoked thought. One popular series featured politicians posing for cheeky photo shoots wearing nothing but briefs, revealing their true selves behind the facade of politics. Another showcased personal narratives from LGBTQ+ individuals who had experienced violence or discrimination due to their identity.
Crush also addressed economic inequality, body positivity, and environmental concerns through sexually charged essays, such as "Sex Workers vs. Climate Change" and "Green Sex." The magazine promoted sustainable living practices like recycling, composting, and renewable energy while exploring the environmental impact of pornography production and consumption. These articles sparked debates on the intersection between ecology and sexuality, raising awareness among readers who might not have considered these connections before.
Crush uses explicit content to challenge societal norms and promote social justice causes, providing a platform for activist voices that may otherwise go unheard. It's an important publication for anyone interested in understanding how erotic themes can be used to elevate political and cultural conversations.