Cynthia Loyst
Madame De Sade
Although this is probably the fourth or fifth 'fetish' story I have done while at Sex TV,
I must admit that I still don't personally find an erotic appeal in hardcore S&M play. Having said that, this particular story solidified my belief that while I may not wish to be a part of this world, it is extremely important that people are allowed to partake in fetish play.
The Madame De Sade (a.k.a. Terri-Jean Bedford) has become a sort of crusader for the rights of people in the fetish community. What's interesting about the story of 'The Madame', is not so much what she does - but the trouble she has received for doing it.
In 1994, the police raided and shut down her suburban fetish home where 'The Madame' had been taking in a hefty salary for providing 'fantasy play' for wealthy clients. Despite the fact that there was no penetrative sex taking place, the Madame was charged with running a common 'bawdy' house. (Bawdy house? Just hearing the use of the word 'bawdy' is a reminder of just how archaic this law really is.) Right now there are probably at least a dozen S&M dens hidden throughout downtown Toronto - why, then, was there such a focus on this one?
This highly publicized case asked whether or not "The State" had any right to poke their noses in the 'dungeons' of the nation. While Terri-Jean continues to thumb her nose at the law - she does so on tender ground. Since she was slapped with a $3000 fine, there has been no definitive ruling on whether S&M activity constitues sex. While you may not see how that outcome relates to you…just so you know…this case proved that in this country the law still has a say in what you do in the privacy of your bedroom.
Cynthia Loyst
Segment Producer, SEXTV
