A recovered sex addict and former stripper will discuss their experiences with the pornography industry Wednesday at 7 p.m. in Woodward Hall Room 101.
The presentation, titled "Power of Porn," features Gene McConnell, who will speak about how his sexual addiction damaged his career as a church pastor. He also will discuss the affects of pornography on American society overall. The Associated Students of UNM's Student Special Events and the Campus Crusade for Christ are sponsoring the event.
"Pornography is accepted as apple pie in America," McConnell said in a press release.
He said that one reason that pornography sells is because many view it as a form of entertainment that has little negative impact on society.
Some people argue against the destructiveness of pornography's existence, and others say that, while it may be potentially harmful, it is still protected under the First Amendment.
McConnell's involvement with pornography ended after following a woman to her car, attacking her and placing his hands around her throat in attempt to rape her, according to the press release.
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"The fear in her eyes was like someone hitting me with a baseball bat," he said.
Kimberly Drake, a former stripper and model, will discuss images of beauty and sexuality in American society.
Drake is part of a bevy of former exotic dancers in the country who have joined McConnell to speak at various colleges and universities about the influence of pornography in their lives.
The presentation has traveled to schools such as Miami University, Wright State University, Whitworth College and Indiana State University.
The speakers will meet for a follow-up discussion Thursday in Woodward Hall, Room 101, at 7 p.m.
For more information, contact Peter Lively at 459-6062.
Staff Report
