"Philly's kink scene speaks out about safe, ‘very chill' parties, after Pa. senators pull funding from community center that hosts them"

The William Way Community Center, a central hub of Philly LGBTQ life since the 1970s, found itself in a media firestorm this week when U.S. Sens. John Fetterman and Bob Casey requested to pull $1 million in federal funding after learning the nonprofit rents space to a group that hosts kink parties. ... “These community spaces are where we can actually learn how to be safe and keep each other safe,” Joy said.

Everyone involved should keep themselves safe.

Some queer and kink advocates reacted with alarm, saying that kink is a normal part of human sexuality and that hosting safe parties that adults consent to attend is not something Congress should try to police.

Let people enjoy things! With taxpayer funding.

These days, the Aviary party draws upward of 200 people each month, Cnaan said, and features space for education, socializing, a fort with coloring books, and a main playroom with “traditional kink furniture,” like St. Andrew's crosses, spanking benches, massage tables, and rope suspension rigs. “Dungeon monitors,” which Cnaan likened to lifeguards, roam the space to make sure all is well.