From the Editor :: July 2021

We’re finally getting the wet-hot, vaxxed summer we all deserve. 

Last year, COVID robbed us of a proper summer. Outdoor events and festivals were canceled; pools were closed; travel was banned, and plans were canceled if they involved meeting folks outside your bubble. No one swam; no one partied, and no one had fun. 

Now, much of the U.S. is fully vaccinated, and we’re bouncing back with a vengeance for a steamy, sexy summer. Proud out, trans folks like Elliot Page are flaunting their stuff topless, and this issue is filled with the steamy and the sexy. And even though we’ve spent a summer in sweatpants hiding inside, it’s now time to step into the light and show it all off. 

Feeling a little socially anxious or generally overwhelmed getting back into the world is totally normal, and not everyone is comfortable with showing off their body. But one thing we’re not going to do this summer is shame others, or ourselves, for putting on the “COVID-19” or any other amount of weight that was or wasn’t gained during this unprecedented time in our history. 

Also, we’re not going to compare ourselves to others. If you look like Eliot Page or Gigi Gorgeous topless, wow, congrats! You’re super hot! But guess what; if you look more like me and carry some extra weight and curves, or if you’re trans and you don’t live up to what society expects from a “hot” trans person, you’re also super sexy and oh-so valid. 

So, whether you gained the COVID-19, 49, or -9, you’re gorgeous; you’re valid, and your body is a beach body if you have the desire to take that body to the beach. Take it all off; show just what you’re comfortable with, or keep it covered up and locked down. Whatever you do, you be you. May this summer bring you sun, limited vaccine side effects, and gender euphoria.