Does KINK & FETISH belong at public pride events? | EP. 10 | The Blake Debate

Join me Alexis Blake and my fiancé Liam Blake on our semi-weekly podcast - where we discuss the latest hot topics, our life in general and also answering questions from viewers!
On today’s episode we discuss whether kink and fetish have a place during public LGBTQ+ pride events/marches, whether kids should be exposed to said subjects and Liam’s birthday!!!!
Hope you enjoy!
All our love
Alexis & Liam x
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[@amandaochampaugh9887]

Kink has no place in a public setting. Especially not where children are present. What grown adults do in the privacy of their own homes is their business but it should not be done around kids.

[@amandaochampaugh9887]

On another note, Go Ape is so much fun. I had such a good time when I went. Enjoy it & a very happy birthday to Liam.

[@kevincurr4641]

It's the kink cry bullies who truly get off doing so in front of children, time and a place.

[@Liam_blake00]

@@amandaochampaugh9887thank you so much I had such a good time ❤

[@barjee8965]

Agreed but also, children shouldn't be at pride

[@des1510]

👍

[@GrandPoppyA]

I really don't like kink/fetish groups being at Pride. We need to stop sexualizing our Pride events that are open to the public.

[@youtubeposter3814]

Yes, Pride is about showing how we are not ashamed of being gay (hence “Pride”). It is not our specific sexual practices that we are expressing pride for. We are expressing that we have a healthy sense of self-esteem despite being LGBT. We are not afraid to be or authentic selves.

[@supernovaskies5044]

exactly. In public. I think there should absolutely be a space for adult only kink events during pride, but away from the family friendly celebrations or at a different time if the same space has to be used for both.

[@GrandPoppyA]

​@supernovaskies5044 I have been in the kink scene for over 20 years and what I see happening in front of kids irks me. Kids the same age as my grandkids shouldn't be around that.

[@susanplatt5331]

It's about love and unity not sex and depravity. Keep that private. ​@youtubeposter3814

[@arabellapirrone]

I definitely don’t think you can influence someone to become trans, but you can definitely influence someone to THINK they are

[@geometerfpv2804]

Yeah I am surprised they said this considering they often talk about social contagion

[@youtubeposter3814]

@@geometerfpv2804I interpreted it as influencing someone to be legitimately trans. We’re not 100% what causes gender dysphoria at this point, so if it can be induced by others or the environment, then someone might indeed be able to be to be so-influenced.

[@FayeFaye-]

Thats like, rapid onset gender dysphoria with extra steps xD

[@jairbol884]

Good point

[@Berndr]

I disagree 100%!!! You can't convince someone to be trans or gay, nor could I ever be able to convince you that you are a penguin ... people always know who they are deep down, they just choose to ignore it because they don't like the answer, not different from closeted gay guys , they know they're gay they just do not like the answer, so they will even lie to convince you that they are straight ... but yes, I agree that you can convince someone who is already thinking of becoming trans and push them in that direction, the Phrasing is important! My concern is to make sure that they are transitioning for the right reasons, and there is only one correct answer, they only Identify as the sex they want to transition into and always had, unlike me who as a gay teenage boy did not like being gay and thought being woman would have been the easier way out and I would get less discrimination, I would have even lied to get that opp... thank God it did not happen, because even back then I knew I was a man and not trans, but as someone from the religious conservative background I just did not want to be gay and be a sinner in God's eyes, and that was wrong... because we are who we are, and trust me we always know our sexual identity, we just may not like it and accept it ! So if a child is ashamed of being gay , the only right path is to raise him to embrace it and be proud of who he is, rather than feel shame and do something wrong as result!

[@J-cy8hq]

I can’t even believe this is a conversation. No sexual behaviour belongs in public, period.

[@despacitoking237]

Does kissing count too 😂

[@thatlittlehomestead]

I completely agree. However the conversation needs to be had because it is happening in public. So what do we do when we don’t agree but it’s happening anyways? Also I was thinking kink & fetishes aren’t okay for any sexual orientation to be showing in public where children or non consenting adults are present. In this conversation they are addressing only a minority of people but it’s not okay period.

[@gemlouise1260]

​@despacitoking237 If it's the kind of kissing that leads to sex, then it counts.

[@kaysie11dh]

As a part of the kink/Fet scene myself, i can explicitly say that there is no place for it in public. If anyone wants to practice their kinks etc in front of others, there are clubs and organised events/spaces for it. By flouting it in public places, you are not gaining consent from others. It’s so wrong no matter your sexual/gender preference.

[@pinstripesuitandheels]

Exactly! Kink and fetishism are about sexual pleasure, not sexual identity. Sexual pleasure is something for behind closed doors, not the streets!

[@kaysie11dh]

@@pinstripesuitandheels absolutely. The lifestyle is based on consent. People of the public are not consenting to be a part of it. Like that young woman who took a guy on a collar and leash to the supermarket in the USA. Those people in the supermarket did not consent to be a part of that scene of humiliation which the guy on the collar and leash clearly wanted. It gives the BDSM/fetish/kink scene a bad name.

[@youtubeposter3814]

@@pinstripesuitandheelsPerhaps they are conflating those two together. That’s the only reason I can come up with as to why someone would think it’s okay. I know someone who wears kink to pride in my life, and their excuse is “I’m not responsible for other people’s kids.” Like wtf. You could say that for anything.

[@omarra6781]

@@youtubeposter3814 But they ARE responsible for being presentable in public. They may not be responsible for other people's kids in the sense that discipline, education, religious studies (or not), etc. are the parents' responsibilities, but when you step out into public and become a part of the public, you most certainly are responsible for what you lay at other people's feet.

[@matthewbradley2299]

​@youtubeposter3814 if the excuse "not being responsible for other people's kids" was even remotely valid then it would be a great argument for being able to do 60mph in a school zone.

[@Kimberley42]

This was my biggest complaint at my local pride last year. The kink group in their masks were one of the first groups in the parade so were very prominent and there were young families everywhere, and this really soured the whole event for me.

[@esthermarcen7587]

agree with you

[@JM-rf3lv]

Agree too. Exactly why I do not believe kink should be permitted is so children can be. When it becomes sexualized keep children away.

[@ArseniyaBlackMetal]

Thank you.

[@chjdjdjdjsjsj830]

Why is kink/fetish shit even a thing at pride? What’s it got to do with being LGBT?

[@Demitria4]

Agreed, me and my ex girlfriend never went to a pride ever and this is why, it feels gross and I don't want to be a part of that

[@shadowjewel]

Something I take serious issue with is this topic is essentially trying to equate LGBT+ with kink, but that is far from the truth, many people who are LGBT+ are not kinky and do not engage in any kind of kink, likewise many people who are straight do. Kink has nothing to do with it, it's it's own separate thing. LGBT+ does not equal kink or engaging in kink, and being LGBT+ is not itself a kink, people need to stop tying these things together. Edit; *of course* I am concerned with issue of kids being exposed to this stuff, and the issue of consent, that stuff is obvious (so obvious that with most other comment on this vid bringing it up I didn't think I needed to spell this out, but apparently I do) but everyone is already talking about that, not nearly as many are talking about this issue, not just in how LGBT+ is perceived from the outside but also how segments of "the community" are pushing it on other LGBT+.

[@kaysie11dh]

100 % agree 👍🏻

[@pinstripesuitandheels]

Absolutely!

[@geometerfpv2804]

Yeah this has always confused me. Why are they so interconnected culturally? It makes LGBT seem like some kind of devious thrilling sexual experiment instead of just a normal way of being.

[@fabianbiere5653]

This + involving kids where they shouldn't be and how modern "trans" people try to erase the majority binary reality even to the extent they are telling lesbians to suck a 🍆 (one example) is why i just can't ever call myself an "ally" without feeling dirty

[@melbaraboo]

​@geometerfpv2804 I think the reason it's done isn't because these people are actually in the kink community they do it for the shock value and attention getting. Anyone who is a serious about being in the community finds out very quickly that the first rule of those communities is enthusiastic consent and if your prancing around in public knowing that there is a good chance there will be people who dont consent then you are not a true part of the community

[@goldcat3512]

Kink at Pride ruins the whole thing. Pride used to be a celebration were you could bring your entire family along. It is very sad that explicit adult performers feel they need to ruin this event for everyone.

[@Megan.eco-Instinct]

I couldn't agree more! I am an older lesbian so I know what Pride events used to be. It was literally our time to be out, to express joy-filled pride, and to have public spaces shared with the our lgbt community. The community brought their children, we loved sharing pride with straight allies and their children - *it was always meant to be a family friendly event* It was *NOT* always kink and sex. Every now and then you would see some of the guys getting a little frisky but to be honest, even then the bulk of the community was telling them to *_cut it out_* You see, back then you would see media being able to criticize our community because they would *always* find the 2 or 3 people who were being over the top and *they* were always pointed to as representative of our community. So, the majority of the Pride attending community would be telling the more outrageous among us to just *cool it* until the late night bar parties. Now the community is so ... taken over by every fringe imaginable that PRIDE is no longer recognizable. I'm 62 and haven't been to a Pride event for more than a decade now - and that isn't because of age - I would still love to go to the Pride events we used to have. Our representation has changed and *not* for the better. Those who really understood moving our community forward are aging and the young generation moving in... well, let's just say they are not representing our community in respectful and productive ways.

[@harmonymiller1211]

Perhaps that's what it will take to change it: enough people in the LGBT community standing up and saying, "This does not represent us."

[@kezl3037]

I think kinks should remain private. From hearing my friends weird kinks now there is no holding back i swear their kinks are getting more dangerous. One friend had a social media account for her kink, her 13 year old daughter found it and is off the rails now. I think anything sex related should be kept behind closed doors and not published to the world.

[@kezsofasogood]

Kink and fetish has a time and a place, and should be over 18 and in a designated space. I think it's nice for kids to see gay and lesbian couples etc as a normal part of life. You look lush today as usual Alexis, and Liam I like your jacket (sorry, Alexis, I have to dish out the compliments fairly!!) ❤

[@veritorossi]

No, it has no place. I agree that there can be a Pride Parade but it has to be acceptable in public. I don't want to see naked dudes, women or anyone on the streets. You can dress up but there is no place in public. Do whatever you want in your own home, in your own club, etc but not on the streets. And definitely not in front of little kids.

[@Kasia237]

100% agree ❤ there is nothing wrong with having a kink or fetish but it has nothing to do with celebrating love and who you love.

[@supernovaskies5044]

As a queer person in the kink scene, the largest rule we have is consent. And when you involve children with kink, consent is broken. That being said, the link between the kink community and the LGBTQ community is a strong one, and I do believe that queer kinksters have a right to celebrate their sexuality during pride, at 18+ pride themed events, away from the family friendly events, where people have full knowledge provided for what goes on at each event :) Also side note, as a human pup myself, pet play is not inherently sexual, but I would never engage in it around children EVERRRRRRRRRR

[@Alexis_blake00]

This is the thing me and Liam are both adults and Liam especially has been to these types of nights but as you say it's about consent and we just feel at public events there is none. Of course it should be celebrated like all things but as Liam says there's a time and a place

[@ladabingo7912]

I’ve not been to Pride for years, though the first time was London in the early 90s when I had very little self-confidence and turned up full of anticipation (and some fear) with my first proper boyfriend but feeling it was important to be there, it was a free event and all about dignity and rights. It felt political just to be there. What mattered most to me was a simple thing…it felt safe to hold my boyfriend’s hand in public. The last time I was dancing on a float with pals in Manchester I think 2015 or 16 and it will stay in my memory as a happy day, but it was also clear that by then it was a commercial party with as many brands on display as slogans. I went home after the parade and just came back for the vigil. Now I’ve no idea. I do feel removed from it, it doesn’t speak to me in the mainstream commercial or from the kink point of view. This is still an ongoing question for me as to why. The new pride flag doesn’t feel like progress, I don’t think it’s just age, I’m in my mid 50s now, though age does give you perspective and history. One thing I hope Pride will always matter for is it’s usually the first time and only time in the year LGBT people can hold hands with their partners in public or simply kiss or give or receive a peck on the cheek and feel completely safe. Even in the years since being able to marry, that is still a thing. That feeling I’ll never forget. To me Pride should be about promoting safety to do these everyday normal things, but I’m not sure how including kink up front and centre helps with this.

[@kaysie11dh]

❤❤❤❤

[@pinstripesuitandheels]

That's exactly how I feel about it.

[@sophierusk9704]

LOVE the curls, Alexis! ❤ i don't think either kids or kink should be at pride due to the amounts of alcohol and partying that happens (just like I wouldn't have kids at a regular adults party) and I'm Bisexual so I used to love pride, but I cannot bare the kink that has seeped into the community. Its disturbing at the very least to expose children to sexual orientated things, no matter what it is, let alone actual kink/fetishism which is ONLY for mature audiences. If there was no kink and alcohol free pride events that are family friendly, go for it and bring your kids. But otherwise; no. I don't think so.

[@AlanaByTheShore]

The curly long hair looks gorgeous on Alexis ❤❤❤

[@pipwilkinson689]

As a parent of the boys in the video I have to disagree with this. My children are being brought up to accept and celebrate every type of person, race, sexual orientation, gender, hair colour, eye colour, everything. Pride is a place where they can look around and see thousands of people enjoy the same thing. Now to the alcohol point, I do not drink when I’m with my children because there is people drinking, which is fine. We take kids to the pub for a Sunday lunch don’t we? We go to a hungry horse or bistro for some tea don’t we? It’s the same thing, just maybe on a larger scale. But these events (as I’m sure you are aware) are heavily protected, to the point I actually feel more safe with my children at a pride event, than I would going into a city centre on a Friday or Saturday tea time. Just I food for thought 🙂

[@sophierusk9704]

@pipwilkinson689 thank you for your input! Your comment has made me think. However, I haven't changed my stance. I've been to many pride events, and it's quite different from a controlled, pub environment. As an adult I've become extremely uncomfortable at times around people who drink too much at pride so I wouldn't bring my child into that sort of space, plus there's not much for them to do other than look around. They don't offer child based activities, really. I don't look down on people who have their children in alcohol oriented places; I just wouldn't do it myself. I just think there are other places than pride that children can learn more about the other people living around them. Also, in pubs, children cannot stay later than a certain time, whereas a lot of people pre drink before they even get to pride and it goes on all day so therefore you are taking a little risk there as you aren't certain that the people around you haven't been drinking throughout the whole day rather than just a beer at lunch. I'm just sharing my experience and what I believe, I don't think what you're doing is wrong. It's just not what I would do. Thanks for commenting, though. I appreciate the discussion! :)

[@experimenter19]

The emotional maturity you demonstrate is inspiring Alexis

[@sarahtomlin6398]

I agree that the fetish does not belong at pride since it has evolved into a more family friendly event to celebrate acceptance of gay family members and families that are different. There is also the risk of fetish being the dominant (no pun intended!) impression that that more conservative people have and thus having a negative impact on acceptance. Thank you for your thoughtful discussion!

[@janiceburnett-holler2206]

My favourite couple!! I just love listening to you both so much!! I completely agree, I think kids should be allowed at PRIDE, however and I again agree with you both Fetish and Kink should not be at pride especially with children around. This is just common sense which is why I love you both so much. You have common sense and you both have respect for people in general from all walks of life! Sending big hugs and much love from Ontario, Canada! ❤❤

[@Bitofa_nerd]

I'm so glad we have level headed people like you two on this platform. I think children don't need exposure to protesting of any form when they're very young. As teens we were exposed to news with newspapers and TV. We're exposing young minds to too much information too soon, it stresses them out. One of my friends daughters was suicidal at 11yo. This was due to Greta Thunburg, world conflicts, pronouns at school, family stuff and bullying at school. It was too much. She's been in counselling since. They don't need to take on adults responsibility yet. There's a reason why there's R18 on the outside of adult stores and kink clubs.

[@miamarsh7689]

Since Pride has become more of a family gathering, I've wondered why the event hadn't changed to reflect that. Like obviously kink could still be included in indoor spaces as an 18 and up event but why not have family based things to help build community? Things like a fair with three legged races and such and maybe a dance for teens so families and teens of all back rounds can build community and safe places, maybe a second parade at night after the kiddos have gone home for the more explicit groups

[@elizabethvinson3867]

The city I lived in that had a decently sized Pride showing had lots of family friendly stuff with games for kids and face painting and family friendly drag performances. They also had 18+ and even 21+ events from my understanding though I did not attend so I don't know how kinky those were vs how much it was just a space for adults to drink and party.

[@miamarsh7689]

@@elizabethvinson3867 That's awesome! I hope family friendly events pop more and more at pride

[@johnmiwa6256]

Pride Parades should have a "Safe For Children" portion, followed by an "Anything Goes" portion. That way parents can choose what to expose their children to. I personally don't think the "Anything Goes" behavior is beneficial to the Alphabet Community, but we do live in a free society.

[@susansullivan9255]

People made comments about this regarding sparkle (Manchester) last year saying it was to sexualised ....so no kink does not belong at pride events ...and yes I'm a trans woman myself....children shouldn't be exposed to this ...period....pride should go back to the way it used to be ....not sexualised.......no need for it ....

[@alisonwright2508]

My son is 14 and is part of the LGBTQ+ community. Our town is having its first Pride this year, and he and his bestie were some of the first to get their tickets. As a Mum, I want him to feel welcomed and supported by his community, and not exposed to adult sexual fetishes. He’s still pretty innocent tbh, and I would hate him to be put off ever attending Pride again. Also, for the wider community, seeing people dressed up in sexual gear, could affect how the wider LGBTQ+ community is perceived. All adults have every right to do what they want, in the privacy of their own homes.. gay, straight or whatever…but this doesn’t mean what is done in private is acceptable in public.

[@iAutumnQueen]

At my local pride since 2021, they would do different pride events each week leading to the big pride parade. One of the pride events is a pride family picnic. However, I did see those people with pup masks a lot with collars around their necks, topless with a braces, a tail, acting like a dog, and their "masters" walking with them. I feel like it's not representing nothing about Pride.

[@sarahm9968]

I think the issue is extrapolating this to anything else would be illegal. I, as a woman cannot go topless down the street or to the beach. Men cannot walk down the street in a thong without it being indecent exposure yet, in pride there are no limits.

[@njlauren]

Women can wear bikinis on the beach that are a piece of dental floss in the butt area, and small flaps of cloth over the breasts and genitals. Wearing fetish gear in public is not illegal, as long as genitals are not exposed, kink wear like leather pants, jackets, chaps if the genitals are covered are not illegal either. That doesn't mean I think kids, especially younger ones , should be exposed to it, but it isn't illegal.

[@GFYKTHXBYE]

I think Pride could maybe benefit from splitting up events into those that are family friendly, from those that are not. That way, everyone is allowed to participate, but it keeps children from being over-exposed too quickly to adult themes by separating out the events for 18+.

[@actchickcee]

You two are an absolute beacon. I always smile when I watch your videos. I appreciate how balanced and kind you both are when discussing these hot button issues. It's people like you who open minds and show the world that you're just two people in love, trying to live your best lives.

[@Gh0stNoName]

As a parent, I can tell you that no. Last time we went to pride will be the last time we go. It has changed so much since the pandemic, it is not family friendly at all, at least not here in NYC.

[@MichaelYoder1961]

Pride has become so commercial now, it's ridiculous. Most Prides are branded by a big sponsor. And while we all have our kinks, we're grown adults having kinks, not children - so no, I think it's a personal thing, not a public thing (unless you wear your pup mask to work). I'm disaffected from the "community" and Pride has too many people (my biggest problem as an introvert with major anxiety in large groups). Thanks, you two!

[@jamieleedavis]

I strive for people to view me as a complete person, who happens to be queer. It is regrettable that we are seen as perverts by conservatives. People acting out in public harm our cause .

[@TarynRMartin]

A majority of present-day conservatives don’t mind whatever consenting adults choose to do behind closed doors. Children should not be exposed to kink/nudity at pride, just like children should not be exposed to kink/nudity in a strip club.

[@SethAndrews111]

honey, convervatives see us like that no matter what we do or how we act. We don't have to conform to their prudush, ultra-conservative trad standards of conduct to be simply treated equally under the law. And we are required to.

[@njlauren]

The people who see us as perverts will see us as that no mater what. I wrote a long post here about that, there were people who argued that at the parade the only thing there should be 'normal' gay people who wanted to get married, have kids and live the american dream. You could do that, and it wouldn't please the haters.

[@daisydedication2890]

I totally agree with you and Liam there is a time and place for leather and pup play which I don’t think is at a pride event especially when children do go to it ,I remember when I was like 16/17 I went to pride in London and a guy who was dressed up as a pup was getting walked by I guess his master and that really made me feel uncomfortable and I was a teenager but to me pride isn’t about making everything sexualised it’s about having the freedom to be who you are ,I’m a straight Ally and I’ve been to gay clubs as adult and I don’t have an issue with kink stuff but definitely there is a time and place for it especially when kids are around , hope you and Liam have a wonderful Saturday ❤

[@hannahsarthub]

Kink at Pride, or kids at Pride. Not both. My husband and I had this conversation recently, and we kind of came to the conclusion that if they had a Pride event that is 18+ that is private, kink should totally be allowed. But, as a mother, I can’t let my girls go to Pride events, though they know people in the LGBT community, because I don’t want to expose them to things that aren’t age appropriate for them. On the trans agenda comments, I agree that you can’t influence people to actually be trans. However, there are a lot of kids these days that are adopting the LGBT identity, more specifically the non-binary and trans, and I can’t really believe that all of them are actually trans, given the statistics on gender dysphoria. And that wasn’t really happening 5-10 years ago.

[@elizabethvinson3867]

So one thing to remember is that there is a major difference between having gender dysphoria and being trans (including nonbinary). There are certain identities that naturally sort of are more incompatible with the level of gender dysphoria that would be diagnosed. Example: An agender person is nonbinary and that just means they don't have a strong feeling when it comes to their gender. They would typically experience gender dysphoria only as any stress due to being mistreated not as any issue with their body, right? I read a study conducted via survey of young adults in California a few years back. That is an area where people would probably feel the most comfortable identifying as trans right? Anyway, they had a small percent of people respond that they were trans (including nonbinary) BUT 20% answered other questions about themselves in such a way that said they met the definition of being trans(including nonbinary). I think that was a 2018 study. A large 2022 study showed the percent of Gen Z identifying as trans was up to 5%. Imo, some of it is learning words and definitions and how things have been destigmatized. When I was in high school, we had never heard of being nonbinary or third gender and we did learn the singular neutral they but for a person of unknown gender. The term tomboy was commonly used though and there are some nonbinary people who will say that is their gender though others may find the term offensive. As a younger millenial, I ended up attending college with mostly Gen Z and learned that most trans people don't have surgeries or anything and it is common to not even want to have surgery. Hopefully, I am not just rambling but this was all stuff I took forever to learn so I figure it is not quite common knowledge.

[@ClementineDaydream]

@@elizabethvinson3867 I think there would be some, including myself, who would disagree with the way you have categorized things here in your comment. Many, including conversations had by Alexis and Liam, agree that trans and nonbinary are two very distinct things and trying to combine the two is disingenuous. So those numbers you provided would be heavily distorted because of this.

[@hannahsarthub]

@@elizabethvinson3867 I guess most of the transsexual people I know would say that non binary is different from trans, and that being trans does actually require real gender dysphoria. I don’t doubt that Gen Z is identifying as being a part of the LGBT community more than any other generation before them. I just think there is a portion of those who are doing so more because gender identity is new and interesting. We used to express a single gender in many different ways. Gen Z has kind of taken each of those interpretations of a gender and turned them each into a brand new gender identity. And, at least some in Gen Alpha have gotten confused and now think, for example, that if they are a girl that doesn’t like dolls or the color pink, that they must not be a girl.

[@elizabethvinson3867]

@@ClementineDaydream Respectfully, there are individual opinions and then there is where the science stands. I know I can be kind of cut and dry sometimes because I am a numbers person and that's also why I went to college for biophysics (specifically my degree is in physics with a second discipline in cell biology and neuroscience). A lot of us were raised with all these ideas of what things are and it causes a lot of biases. Medically and scientifically, we talk about nonbinary and binary transgender people. There is a difference, much like the difference between trans and cis women. As an US citizen, it is hard to hear how behind the UK seems to be on these issue. For example, the UK does not recognize nonbinary people as existing at all, let alone as being transgender. It has caused issues when it comes to treating gender dysphoria and their ability to peacefully exist in the UK. They don't even permit intersex people to claim to be anything but male or female. So it is a bit cultural that we hear Alexis say certain things and even use really derogatory language while refusing proper terms. It's not as much of a political stance against trans or even specifically nonbinary people like it is in the States. Anyway, one of the things that complicates the science is that we are dealing with a social construct. For example, three people assigned female at birth could have the exact same traits and consider themselves on the masculine side of what is still a woman, a nonbinary person, and a trans man even within the same culture as their brain will not have the exact same perception of where the boundaries between those things are. If a fourth person had the same gender traits but was raised in another culture, their brain may perceive them as fitting into being a perfectly feminine woman because that culture would have a different list of traits they consider feminine vs masculine. So a person why said they were assigned female at birth and a woman and rated herself as very masculine on this survey fits the traditional definition of being transgender as they are assigned female at birth and indicating they are masculine rather than feminine so their gender is out of alignment with their sex assigned at birth. And I am not talking smack on either of these two. Alexis has said she doesn't feel like she should get equal treatment with any other woman when it comes to female spaces. That is heartbreaking to hear her say. And she does use the terms "biological woman/man" which are antiscientific and more political than anything. Like, if I wrote a medical paper using those terms, I would have to provide a definition/clarify what I meant. And politicizing a paper that way would be risky. The only argument against using the proper scientific term "cisgender" has sort of centered on an argument that being born with certain parts (and identified are birth as having those parts or even being surgically assigned them as an infant) makes a person more of a man or more of a woman. (Those arguing this tend to view intersex people more as suffering from a disease than having a valid sex outside of the binary.) For a scientist to argue against existing data that a person's genitals play that sort of role in determining a group of psychological traits, they would have to ignore over half a century of data. (Not saying nobody does that either.)

[@elizabethvinson3867]

@@hannahsarthub You made a lot of different points. The first thing is that the term "transsexual" is antiquated and most commonly used as a slur. There are some who choose to identify as that and that can be VERY controversial as the definition of being "transsexual" is someone who has medically altered their sex, generally via both HRT and surgeries. The choice to prioritize their medical choices over their psychology in how they identify is a big distinction. I think you should go read the diagnostic criteria for gender dysphoria in children. There is a list of 8 symptoms and 6 of them must be present for at least 6 months for diagnosis. All of those can be met without a child actually taking issue with their physical body. They include a preference of toys and activities stereotypically associated with the opposite sex, a preference of playmates of the gender they are saying they are, a strong belief they are said gender, a preference for dressing how a person of said gender would stereotypically dress, an aversion to toys and activities stereotypically associated with a gender they do not identify with and so on. 2 of the symptoms have to do with issues with their body. Obviously, the treatment at that age is generally just to allow free expression of their gender and see how things go as they enter puberty. The definition of gender has been what it is for a long time. I mean, if you go back to some feminists writings from a century ago, they used the word "gender" for what we would consider a combination of gender roles and gender expressions today. I remember one directly calling to "abolish gender" so that people could have equal rights and opportunities "regardless of sex". I remember those two phrases because it was so clear they did not see sex and gender as the same thing. The entire context was that gender was a group of expectations and requirements assigned to someone based on sex. And sex was basically just genital sex then. In a century, we honed in on the underlying psychology more and so we talk about the internal perception of how masculine or feminine or neither someone is. Contrary to what many people believe the goal in treating a transgender or questioning person is to get them to a place where they are expressing that outwardly which is called congruency. This absolutely does not have to involve medically transitioning for everyone. That is an individual thing. Some trans people sort of are naturally there. I can tell you that my generation had more freedom than previous generations as crossdressing alone used to be a huge issue. BUT I know I am not the only one who was very much forced to dress a certain way and do certain things due to the genitals I had. I could even discuss how young girls had their body's structural integrity greatly harmed because we were still taught to sit with our knees together and that destabilized the pelvis and SI joints and can lead to the break down of vertebrae in the lower back and pelvic floor issues like prolapse and incontinence. (I didn't follow that well as it made me uncomfortable.) My best friend absolutely dealt with crap because he was what we called metro. But it was nothing next to my dad being required to abide by such toxic masculine standards (as a boomer) that he wasn't to hold his own babies because that was feminine. (He did hold me as he was older when I came around and things had shifted but it was that oppressive of a situation in the 70s.) I feel like I am rambling now so I will end with the thought that things may have felt different if one was looking at Prince and Freddie Mercury and even Madonna in some respects but I don't know an average person who was not under a lot of pressure to fit into a specific way of being based on their sex. But I have a lot of family that was around before we even had Title IX.

[@addisonfarr9062]

I was going to a Pride Parade 6 years ago, but as I drove by I saw people dressed a little too risque and kept driving. Still to this day, I avoid Rainbows (just kidding). The experience felt cringe and now I can only associate Pride Parades with kink and fetish.

[@elizabethparrish8174]

Liam brought up a great point regarding etiquette. It's an easy way to explain what is shown or not shown depending on the crowd.

[@barbloft]

Happy Birthday, Liam!! 🎂 I love your thoughtful, balanced viewpoints on this topic! Context/setting is always important as to what/when is appropriate. Its not quite the same, but my hubs is a roofer and his favorite adjective is "fuck" and favorite noun is "motherfucker." But if he sees our daughter's principal at the grocery store, he doesn't say, "hey, how the fuck are you?", even though it's his "comfortable" language. Lol

[@hyenaholicproductions9033]

To dress up for a party is one thing. And what the heck, sometimes there's specially commissioned performers on stage. But you can't forget there are often kids at these events. You don't want somebody turning up with dirty intentions and hurting those kids. Either have the kink, or have the kids. One or the other. On top of that, it can send a bad message to the public. Being homosexual isn't about being kinky. They're not the same thing.

[@gilly3927]

For me, as a gay man, it's the difference between community and society. Some people want to define and express themselves as their kink within their sexuality and I suppose outside of their own groups, they think pride is a place to do that? I don't think it is. Inclusivity is about giving everyone a safe place. Kids are perhaps more resilient than we know, and that pride is now a family event? the people attending should adhere to that fact. More people than ever seem confused as to what it is they believe themselves to be and the rainbow grows ever bigger. The pride of stonewall has no bearing on pride today. Personally, I can't relate. Pride was once something to celebrate. Sadly I no longer feel that. Leave sex in your own four walls and go have some fun.

[@fallabeaufaebelle]

I think Pride events should be made for everyone. Which means they should be kept appropriate for families and children. I like what Liam said. Exposing kids to seeing different types of families helps them have that experience that it's normal and okay. It'll hopefully continue to decrease the stigma. Kinks are fine for adults but keep it in the right spaces. Why not have a private convention for it? There are a lot of adults too who wanna experience Pride without seeing people's full anatomy. Some people are even traumatized by that sort of thing and can't enjoy an event they would've loved to be part of in a friendly celebration sort of way. People pushing kinky stuff in public are just straight-up predators who get off on that sort of thing and even admit it. Why are we catering to them? Why are we letting them ruin Pride? It's only giving ammunition to people who want to shut it down when it *is* being family friendly. Fetish folks can still have kink stuff during Pride, just make sure it's in a building and keep it private so that you don't let minors inside. People host cons all the time and there's a demand for kink. If they allow it in the streets, surely it'll be allowed in a private event. It's really not rocket science to make it happen. People who don't want to do it in private will tell you it's because they like exposing themselves. That in itself is a kink. It's even worse tho when people like exposing themselves to kids. But srsly showing off your goodies to me without my consent is sexual harassment on any given day. The fact we give people a pass during Pride events, especially when we tout how we want people to feel like they can bring their children, does **not** send a good message for acceptance for the community!

[@njlauren]

To give a counterpoint (and I am not saying you are wrong), according to conservatives and especially the religious just exposing gay and trans people to children is immoral, hurts them and there are members of the gay community who think trans people are a disgrace. It comes down to what is normal, what do we accept? Again, not criticizing your post, just saying that what is appropriate for children can be in the eye of the beholder.

[@fallabeaufaebelle]

@@njlauren Counter to the counter, morality is up to an individual but the law is not. You can choose to not expose your child to certain topics, but you can’t prevent those concepts from existing. It’s constitutional to have freedom of speech in America at least.

[@njlauren]

The law is the law? Not sure I follow. Exposing genitals or having sex in public is illegal ( exposing a women's breasts is legal).wearing kink attire is not illegal,as long as certain things are not exposed

[@fallabeaufaebelle]

@@njlauren Bruh what? I’m talking about pride existing. That’s what you replied to. Quit reaching.

[@njlauren]

@@fallabeaufaebelle We weren't talking about pride not being legal, we were talking about what people were doing at pride and kids. Pride parades have been denied permits, towns and cities can say for example that they don't have the resources to have it safely, or argue that it is a safety risk, etc (this has happened). Again the point was in the video about if kink people were appropriate at a pride march, not about whether the parade was legal.

[@hellidontcare7355]

If it was a private event kink should be aloud but only for 18yr old and up. But if it’s a parade in public it should not be allowed because it’s inappropriate in that type of setting

[@supernovaskies5044]

Absolutely. Most people in the kink community (at least that I've talked to) agree with this

[@anna.luv3]

more like 20…

[@amandayoung8564]

No keep it behind closed doors family events is not the place 💯 ❤❤❤❤

[@christialuella6594]

Listening I think now do we want to make pride or gay culture synonymous with sex. “Traditional/straight/underage” events don’t highlight overtly sexual things. P.s. I live for sub culture so I hate to see it the hate

[@alliinwonder9675]

It’s fine to dress as a kinky nurse on Halloween for an adult event, but you’re not going to take your children trick or treating in it…hopefully. It’s not complicated.

[@angrykazoonoises]

Thank you for tackling this topic. I see this argument every year when all the ask is don't wear this during the all ages event! I don't celebrate pride because my local "community" take this to put down sexualities they don't approve and to harrass others. People with families aren't the only ones worried, those who are asexual also don't always want to be seeing this, specifically those sex repulsed. It's not only alienating families but also ace, which as someone who is, I face the most discrimination from other lgbt+ people! It's ironic how some will go around say how accepting the community is and turn right around to attack others like those who identify as asexual.

[@Cynthia_David]

Last pride I was at there were 100% naked people and some were even having sex on the sidewalk. I wasn’t attending the pride just had to go through it on the way back to our hotel. I took my grandkids back to the hotel and then had to have a very long hard conversation with them. I was in New York

[@sjanex]

That’s disgusting. Why do some people think everyone wants to see them naked or having sex?? 🤢

[@TheSarahJane33]

@sjanex Those people are deviants with a free pass.

[@harmonymiller1211]

@@sjanex Alcohol and poor judgement?

[@harmonymiller1211]

That's one aspect that people don't consider. The parades are usually on high traffic routes with many people needing to access the businesses along them. As you said - you weren't there to celebrate PRIDE and had your grandkids with you. So even if you were a full supporter of the LGBT community you didn't want to expose them to it before they were mentally ready to understand what they were seeing. Those people took that choice of timing completely away from you.

[@supernovaskies5044]

That’s just a New York Tuesday. Still sucks tho

[@alliinwonder9675]

“The door is opening” “You scared me…I thought there’s a ghost” Same 🤣

[@angelm795]

When my daughter came out as gay as a preteen I brought her to our local pride and she was so uncomfortable with the fetish and almost naked people we ended up leaving early and she asked to not go back. We haven't been back since.

[@jamiealfenso737]

Aw they're gonna make such good parents. So loving, caring, accepting, open minded and have common sense.

[@lindamason570]

The worst thing I've seen at a pride march is trans marchers chanting were here were queer and were coming for your children. 😊❤🎉

[@AdeleRobinson-1988]

That's awful they should be ashamed saying things like that about children who would even say that

[@mollygrace3068]

That was very unfortunate. I GET that it was facetious and a response to gay panic. However for them to come back and say “it was a joke” is ironic, considering if someone tells a homophobic or transphobic joke, they would call that hate speech. So when is a joke a joke?

[@AdeleRobinson-1988]

I'm transgender myself and have been part of one march in the past and we had a very nice support group and we didn't shout or swear we simply walked with a banner that had our support groups name "Mixadgenders" on and we were polite and friendly and stayed in our section of the march and that was that we didn't want to really be seen half of us and all we were doing was promoting our little support group incase anyone needed support or help and guidance but shouting about children is just disgusting we wouldn't have anyone in our group under 16 and we referred them on to a children's group and advice to see proper health care from a professional like their doctor we were a part of Leicester lgbt+ community centre so all proper and safe 😊 ❤️ but it's not the same place anymore in my eyes kinda just turned into the non binary centre now which is fine but felt like there's no where to go see people who are on the same page now cuz sometimes it's hard out there and we can all do with a friendly face to talk with x

[@christophervincent77]

I know... it doesn't even rhyme...

[@screw_a_username7491]

@@mollygrace3068 hm, I guess it was the mocking of how conservatives truly believe that the LGBTQ+ were groomers. I guess it was an inside joke about how stupid the claim was, but it ended up leaving a bad impression. That’s my take at least

[@JBSRCS]

I’m dying over the edited eyes! Liam, you are hilarious! 😂 Alexis, there is no editing that could change your beauty and grace so never fear. 😘

[@edwardlaskowski5618]

I am from canada. I have just started my transition just over year ago. I 100% agree to being respectful in the pride events. Indecency has no place in the publics eye. If we want to be respect for who we are then there should be rules stipulated before these events take place. This is on the indecency and nudity plus sexual pleasures. I would not take my grand children to have them exposed to this. I am trans as I write this I'm healing in Mexico city from ffs surgery. I love your content and in hopes that all your thoughts and equality reaches people to look at the world as accepting for who we are and not thought of as some fetish.

[@YTladytalkingagain]

OMG the curlies!!!!!! THE GLOZELL REFERENCE living on Liam’s subconscious 🤣 Omg iconic first minute lets goooo

[@kevincurr4641]

Individually and as a couple you both come across as being genuine, cool people who altureristicly seek to be inclusive and the benefit of others. Your podcasts do make a difference, it combats the horrible, loud tiny minority who live to be miserable and drag everyone else down. You should do a joint podcast, with Blaire White, Marcus Dib and Co.

[@Krazy4Pink_Kerry]

The way I see it is kink stuff I of not exclusive to LGBT so I just don’t feel like it needs to be involved in any daytime event including pride. Kink stuff of any kind should and needs to be kept in private. Be that at home or at private events. There is just no need for kink stuff off any kind at a public daytime event especially when young children are there. I also think if the kink stuff was not allowed then at more people who are either on the fence about going or don’t like it because of the kink stuff would be more open to going. I feel they would be more open to it at least. But yeah, that is just how I feel about it.

[@BunnyNiyori]

Toronto Pride 2016, I stood there stunned as the parade was forming up as a group of about 10-20 persons walked past wearing NOTHING other than running shoes in the heat of that summer day. That is outrageous. It is one of the main reasons I can't participate in Pride events anymore. Queer or straight, how is that even justifiable? I don't mind walking with my transgender flag, but my outfit could have been worn in a church or to the mall. Pride has become a freak show shock fest.

[@TheSheGoz]

Along the line of thought of "straight pride" (what a freaking ridiculous comment/question that was!): Personally, I look at the Pride Parade as a celebration of progress toward equality for the LGBT community. If the goal is equality, then the same standards of public decency/public indecency should apply to Pride Parades as every other public celebration/parade, right? At any other mainstream public event, someone showing up mostly nude, with butt plugs, and ball gags, and engaging in sexually provocative behavior would be arrested. This is why the kink and sexually explicit stuff at public Pride events, creates such backlash, and fuels the anti-LGBT rhetoric. Also, Alexis, having seen the photos of you shared of "old you"/"man you", I agree with Liam, you were stunning then, and you're stunning now.

[@pshar8674]

i love this Alexis, we need you on mainstream TV to give a balanced trans woman opinion! thank you both for sharing your views and insights. x

[@AmericanAmy]

I love you too when you’re together. I love you by yourself too, dear, but he’s so honest. You both seem so honest and open and I like that.

[@Mother.Mulberry]

Just wanted to thank you both for the regular uploads. ❤

[@Liam_blake00]

Awww thank you ❤

[@solomeyashiukashvili7113]

Kink and fetish are not a life style but sexual preference. It's not even PG-13 so why should it be at public events? Kids are not allowed to have sex until what, 16? And no drinking until 21, so why push sex themes on them?

[@supernovaskies5044]

I would say kink is more of a lifestyle choice than being queer is

[@lyndaroberts1970]

You 2 are so cute. Love your balanced views. Im a mum of a non binary trans beautiful human. Love is love but sexual fetishism is not for daytime xx

[@TanyaRando]

I think it's good for kids to see that families come in all different colours, and all different variations. There will be more understanding of 2 dads, 2 mums etc, and I think kink/fetish will put families off going. As you said, they can do what they want after a certain time, or at an after party.

[@jeantienhelder4534]

i have a very fond memory of Amsterdam Pride from the 90's when i was a little girl It was supposed to be a shopping trip with my mom and granny but when we arrived on Amsterdam Central station , it was packed cause it was Pride and we didn't knew XD....so we walked to the centre and my grandma was in a wheelchair and i remember all the these lovely men in pink where like " everyone move aside ladies coming through!" making space and way for my grandma to move through🥰everyone was so lovely and well mannered🥰 When the pride-boats were floating through the canals, and of course we were curious! , a couple of these lovely gentlemen made some space for us to have a look and started chatting with us and one of them took me on his shoulders took have a look at the boats Even as a small girl it made such an impact on me because they were just so lovely and respectful🥰

[@solavie8269]

Kids at pride… depends on the outfits people are wearing or what people are not wearing (like pants) or people’s bare bottoms or peoples mannerisms. Celebrating accepting how people are different from one another… I am all for it. 💜

[@solavie8269]

Maybe have family friendly events and separate events for adults?

[@shelleyshell8067]

You two are just too adorable together. Thank you for the smiles and spreading so much love and positivity. You are you and that's a blessing to the world. Be happy, be safe! 💕

[@miniscenesgb]

As always , you two talk so much sense. While I'm here I must say - Alexis you look more naturally feminine every day. What a beautiful lady. And LIam - what a dude, you are amazing. What a fabulous couple you are, and yes Liam, never grow up. Growing up is optional, and a bad idea. Alexis the hair things - fab!

[@LadyVineXIII]

I have two major issues with Kink and Fetish being so open at Public Pride events. 1) These are now public, family friendly events. 2) Instead of keeping the focus on LGBTQUIA+, the focus becomes the fetish and near nakedness. This creates a really strong association that almost presents the community as a Kink focused around sex instead of making it a complete love that includes sex, but is actually about the mental and emotional attraction as well.

[@ademoss80]

Absolutely not. My old man and I are a part of that community and even on our social media pages about the subject absolutely 100% no minors at all. As followers, answering any kind of question on the subject, no interactions whatsoever. Its not a safe place for them and its not a grey area at all. Back before Tumblr ran everyone off yet basically kept it the same we had a huge community that actively blocked, called out minors, pervs that tried to get into our space. Which got a lot worse when that trash 50 Shades of Abuse and Bulls**t came out. It's not an easy task. There's waaay too much of it that they're incapable of understanding and its not something that can ever be taken lightly. Frankly it could get them killed. I don't personally know a single person in the community that's ok with minors being anywhere near our space. We perfer them about 1000 miles away. Although I myself am as straight as a dang bored I am supportive. I could be out of line here, but I think making it sexual disrespects what Pride is supposed to represent. If thats not right you can totally call me out on it.

[@chrisb1601]

My belief is that due to the greater acceptance, community/“activist” groups are at risk of losing relevance and funding. They need to manufacture outrage, because they can turn the outrage into a way to make them still relevant and “needed.”

[@clodabellabees]

Age appropriation is a MUST.. its our only way to protect them, to let them have a childhood. It's pure selfishishness to not consider children. Couldn't agree with The Blake Debate more ❤❤❤

[@DimBak-cx6uc]

As a trans person it's problematic because the fetish gay places donate to prides and want to do their acts in public so is matter the organizers to stop that sexual public acts and it's in every pride.

[@Justmemyownself]

I have been talking about this for a while. What people do in their bedrooms is not anything that anybody else needs to know about or see. I think kink and Fet should be kept private. it most certainly does not need to be marching down the street in front of my children who are trying to be supportive of our friends and family

[@mfcypher]

It's the unfairness of it, how one group is apparently above the law, because normally someone would be arrested for being naked in public. But if you're gay you can ride your bicycle in the full nude and no will touch you. If we can find a way to make things fair for everyone, I think we could finally reach 100% acceptance in our communities and put an end to the divisiveness. Isn't that what we all want?

[@pinstripesuitandheels]

I don't think kink and fetishism belong under the LGBTQ+ umbrella. They are part of all sexualities, but not identical to a sexual identity. They are the part of our sexual identities we keep private, because they are about sexual gratification.

[@cheekythrillz]

But some lgbtqia people are part of the kink community too.

[@pinstripesuitandheels]

@@cheekythrillz As are some straight people. It's not an identity the way straight or gay is, it's explicitly sexual and doesn't belong in the public sphere.

[@pinstripesuitandheels]

@@cheekythrillz So? Kink and fetishism are explicitly about pleasure. Sexual pleasure is something for the private sphere, whether that is at home, or at private events or clubs.

[@jellymoonbun]

When i was a kid, my father and his wife took us kids to two pride parades and i personally was scared of most of the ppl, bcs of the way they dressed. I wouldn't go there again and would also never bring my daughter

[@kymfrancis4612]

You are both such lovely sincere & principled people ❤I have absolutely no problem with adults doing whatever they want in an appropriate venue; where I draw the line is when children are being exposed to adult sexual paraphernalia. I don’t understand why a family friendly parade without the exhibitionism & blatant display of kink. I would have the same concern about a similar heterosexual event - it isn’t age appropriate. My second son is gay & he is a step parent to 3 little boys & both my son & his partner would never put those boys in that situation.

[@janiceburnett-holler2206]

In regards to you settting up a patrion I would totally support that!! ❤️❤️ Happy Birthday Liam! Cheers!!

[@IvyWhiskeyDram]

I went to a pride event that had a tent for daytime kink, cabaret, adult-comedy and drag, and it was so good, no children was allowed in that part and honestly its nice to have some child-free parts of pride, the rest of the event had plenty of stalls, stages and family centred tents too, plus freebies and areas for all ages (except the bars obviously) but it was such an amazing event that me and my friends went for all the days it was on... Bringing more people with us who equally enjoyed it. Something for all.

[@tiffanystout.]

Alexis is so stunning. I'd be surprised if she didn't get a fair amount of attention everywhere she goes. Truly a natural beauty.

[@clairematchett6755]

We went to drag queen storytime this summer in Belfast and it was AMAZING. They were so good and taught sign language and read Dear Zoo and a book about all different types of families. My 2 (7 and 5) LOVED it It was in absolutely no way sexual so its weird to me that people have a problem with it.... drag queens are natural performers

[@jessicagraham734]

I'm so excited the two of you are planning a family!!! Your going to be amazing parents with your willingness to learn and grow it's hard but the best thing I have ever done..

[@kickthespike]

You two are the voices of reason! So refreshing

[@DeidresStuff]

Nothing done out in public should be inappropriate for children.

[@krystashafer3506]

Completely agree with you guys! I think you both speak very well on these difficult topics. It’s all about respect ❤

[@krystashafer3506]

This sounds like the best birthday ever 🎊 🎊

[@lirdling]

I would personally love to take my young child to a family-friendly pride event so she could see for herself that people are just people no matter who they love, instead of just me telling her. But my previous pride experiences have led me to feel that pride is unfortunately not a family-friendly event. This is due to the kink & fetish aspect, which I have no issue with as an adult, but I have no desire to explain this age-inappropriate topic to an extremely inquisitive child, nor do I want to have to make up lies to explain it away either. If the LGBTQ community on the whole sways towards it being more important that attendees can dress in any way they want, then it is not my place to tell a community what they should & shouldn't do. However, they do need to appreciate that it is at the cost of many families avoiding pride who would otherwise attend and thus losing out on the opportunity of further normalising LGBTQ to the younger generation. Ultimately, we are all free to choose to do what we want, but it is always important to consider the wider benefits vs consequences of what we personally want. My personal choice is that while there is still sexulised kink & fetish at pride, I will continue to choose to keep my young child away to protect her from that aspect.

[@ChicaWithaWrap1991]

Your hair does look amazing! I love you Alexis! And you an Liam are a sweet couple. I agree, Kink is fine for adult PRIDE after parties, but not for main family PRIDE events. Children shouldn’t be exposed to hyper sexuality like fetishes and kinks. Kink and fetish introduction is not appropriate for young children. Period.

[@meags-b1v]

“If it gets a laugh out of someone at your expense, it’s worth it!” 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🙏🏻

[@Liam_blake00]

Absolutely😅

[@bobbiejojackson9448]

Hello, Liam! I understand where you're coming from and I'm not saying this to be confrontational, but just because you weren't influenced by the things you did/games you played as a child/teen, doesn't mean that other kids aren't or won't be. There's a significant social contagion factor when it comes to under 18 youth who are identifying as Tx or part of the LGBT+ community in the last 3-5 years alone and that's not just an opinion on my part. They've actually compiled statistics that show there's a massive increase in that area, especially in the case of special needs kids. In addition to that, the number of children that are being Dx'd with autism or who are considered to be special needs, has also increased significantly in the last 5 to 10 years and they've found those diagnosis' to be a major contributor to being more easily influenced by online exposure. It's already been established that children between birth and the onset of puberty, are in their formative years, when they'e at the stage where they're most likely to pick up and retain the things that they've been exposed to during that time. Please don't just take my word for it, though. There's plenty of information out there to back up what I'm saying. PS: This is off-topic, but can I just add that there's something that comes through every time I watch you and Alexis, that clearly shows that you're not just a "romantic couple" but that you're best friends. Based on my own realtuonship with my husband and what I've seen with my parents and other people in my life, having that deep friendship, along with the passion and love that comes with a committed relationship, is one of the major keys to a successful and very happy marriage/future life together. You really do seem to be meant to be together and it's a beautiful thing! Much love... and Happy Birthday!!!!!

[@AmandaWood-b5t]

First took my girls to Mcr Pride when they were midway through secondary school. That seemed the right time for them, but agree with what you say, “Seeing kink fetish stuff for younger children is a very grey area!”

[@ChautoOfStar]

I think as a way to teach kids to be themselves and accepting of others we swung to others and now we are teaching and showing kids too much and not just letting kids be kids.

[@AnnAndNala]

I totally agree with you. You exude class and elegance Alexis, you're such a great role model.

[@DawnDaffon]

Oh, I love you 2 🥰 you're so cute together. I followed a few people, and many have patreon, I have never had a thought about following them on there. However, I really would follow you, the notifications don't work for me for whatever reason but I always check if you've uploaded when I settle down for a KZbin binge xx P.s Happy Birthday Liam 🎂 🥳 🎉

[@christinameredithlewall2815]

I love going to pride, it’s such a fun celebration. But (especially here in North America) it’s more of a “Bacchanalia” now. It used to be more like a fabulous Carnival🎉 . It used to be a sexy parade, now it’s a parade of sex. I wouldn’t take a child of mine to them anymore. 2 years ago i went and some random parade members were dancing for kids in a way that was not ok. And I’m not a prude either. One parent across from me on the street took their sons hand and left after the interactions and I don’t blame her. I’m lucky that I have a couple of trans friends and several gay and lesbian friends who my future kids can interact with. But what about kids who don’t?

[@miyahollands6136]

I say no, and this is why: I went to my first trans pride event last year, just to check it out. one of my friends was there at a stall, so I went to show support. this was definitely a family focused event, live music and plenty of stalls, so it's more like a village fair. I bought some lunch and found a seat to listen to some live music. close by to me were some people wearing lever fongs, one of which had some ridiculously high stilettos on, they could just about sit comfortably in them, walking took all their concentration to do. this I felt turned it from a legitimate message into a spectacle. this only serves the anti-trans folk ammunition, a reason to complain. someone dressed in this manner is bound to be the person you see on the news, which will ony cement negative opinions a oit the trans community. I feel it cheapens the message. everyone who saw them treated them as such, yes they felt free and liberated enough to dress that way, but their feeling were lost. there were people lining up to have their photos taken with them, as if they were a modern equivalent of a circus freak. an image that only serves to raise the Instagram profile of that person, does nothing to help the trans community. this is the complete opposite to myself, I do spend a great deal of effort trying to pass as female, and it doesn't help make my life any easier. it undermines everything I am trying to do and be. so I left! if this is allowed to go unchecked, then I feel pride events will be in danger of losing their way, and may even become something that will damage the trans community and the ultimate goal of exceptance and easier medical care

[@m1h_1]

I’m relatively new to your channel & I have to say I absolutely love you too. Hope you had a wonderful time in Manchester, celebrating Liam’s birthday. Sending you both ❤❤ from Derbyshire.

[@funkonatuk9079]

I cant cope with how much I love you both together

[@emtaylor597]

everything you've both said is absolutely correct. I can't really say much more about it.

[@urbanastronomy4899]

No because it give the public a incredibly wrong impression of us.

[@heleninglis9961]

Keep the kink to the after parties. I agree with everything you said basically x

[@stephensellick7964]

I love you 2. I watch something by you everyday. I’m a 59 year old gay guy , and you 2 are just awesome. Alexis you look amazing and the teeth and smoke are to die for. Love respect sent to you both ❤️❤️❤️❤️