The diametrically opposed debaters sparred over the role of women in pornography and the acceptability and mainstreaming of adult entertainment. A star of more than 1,500 adult films spanning his career, Jeremy drew from his extensive adult industry experience. Gross has previously debated in various forums nationwide, and formed the XXX Church as a way address people’s problems with pornography. His organization offers counseling to strippers and adult video performers who want to leave the industry.
The idea to schedule a debate on porn was prompted by a series of adult-themed debates on the JMU campus last year, according to the JMU student programming board.
“A big issue on college campuses and amongst youth today is pornography and what part it should take in society,” Elizabeth Koucheravy, vice president of JMU’s student programming board, told The Breeze student newspaper. “A lot of people aren’t aware of the big issue of pornography addiction and sex addiction, and the negative connotation it gives to women in society.”
Student Maggie Sibley added, “I think pornography can be degrading toward women, but so can any form of media. Pornography itself is not a bad thing, but like many things, its misuse can be very unfortunate. I think that it’s good that Ron Jeremy is coming to campus. I believe that diverse perspectives on issues promote good discussion and enhance understanding. It’s always important to understand why people do controversial things.”
Jeremy is no stranger to speaking on adult entertainment. He has debated feminist Susan G. Cole at Arkansas State University and spoken at Oxford University in England.
