The editors of Sydney University’s Honi Soit said they published the graphic cover to make a statement about how vaginas have become “artificially sexualised…or stigmatised.”
According to the publication’s Twitter feed, 4,000 copies have been recalled by the Student Representative Council (SRC).
One of the paper’s ten editors, Mariana Podesta-Diverio, told news.com.au that they were seeking legal advice but believed they may have to pulp the publication or have the covers removed.
In a lengthy Facebook post, the editors wrote: “We are tired of vaginas either being artificially sexualised (see: porn) or stigmatised (see: censorship and airbrushing).”
“Don’t you dare tell me my body offends you,” the post continued.
The genitalia were initially covered by black bars at the SRC’s assistance.
However, the papers were seized when it was discovered the black bars were see through.
The editor in chief has told ABC radio channel, Triple J, that she stands by her decision to publish the controversial cover.
solidarity #vaginasoit pic.twitter.com/i0bgyu9Ko7
— eda (@pedantration) August 21, 2013
The reason the Sydney Uni vulvae got censored is because they were genitals. It didn’t matter what kind of genitals they were. #vaginasoit
— Bill Dennis (@balkandishlex) August 21, 2013
I’m glad they’ve discovered their vaginas, though I am a little concerned about their anxiety #vaginasoit
— Bronwen Clune (@bronwen) August 21, 2013
Editors of Honi Soit produce cover with 18 vulvas to protest censorship. Are then censored by the SRC: https://t.co/vmXJPR2eQ1 #vaginasoit
— Clementine Ford (@clementine_ford) August 21, 2013
I don't want to read about #vaginasoit there must be some pictures about surely.
— Ian Chappelli (@Not_Chappelli) August 21, 2013