Queer History with AJ Sloan: Cruising Past, Present, and Future

October 20, 2023
AJ SLOAN

The history of gay cruising is a musk-scented journey through the clandestine escapades of gay folks looking for anonymous action in public spaces. From the DL liaisons in ancient times to the hot and hard hookups in the parks in the of 17th and 18th centuries, the art of cruising has always been a vibrant part of Queer culture. Secret signals, covert codes, and “fuck me” glances were the currency of this scene, where sex and semen flowed freely despite the omnipresent side-eye of societal judgment.

The throbbing heart of gay liberation in the latter half of the 20th century transformed cruising from a covert cock hunt into a bold celebration of identity and pride. Gay bars, clubs, and designated cruising spots became the playgrounds for carnal encounters that pulsed with the beat of liberation. These hot and horny hubs, once shaded in secrecy, now glistened under all of the colors of the rainbow flag, beckoning bubbly babes and enthusiastic exhibitionists to revel in the debaucherous pleasures of uninhibited sexpression.

Amidst the fuckery, the daunting fist of authority cast a shadow over the splooge-splattered landscape. Raids, arrests, and policing threatened to kill the vibe, but the unapologetic defiance of the LGBTQ+ community clapped back hard. The echoes of the legendary Stonewall Riots reverberate our shared Queer yesteryear, a blazing reminder of the unyielding spirit and unwavering determination of our Queer fam.

With the '80s came the AIDS epidemic. Safe sex practices, health advocacy, and a fierce crusade for sex education became the armor and shield for our courageous Queer warriors, a resolute stand against an unseen adversary. Amidst the shadows, a silver lining emerged, weaving a narrative of resilience, unity, and passionate advocacy that continues to resonate in our community to this day.

The dawn of the digital age has transformed the landscape of cruising into a USB-charged kaleidoscope of possibility. Hookup apps like Grindr and Scruff became the modern-day digital dark rooms where one can chat (anonymously or otherwise) with other like-minded folks with sex on the mind. When asked how they met, 4 out of 5 gay couples today are likely to say “on the apps.” Cheers, Queers! I’ll see you at your beachside wedding orgy in Puerta Vallarta.

Many man-thirsty 'mos argue that such apps not only miss the mark on cruising but that they in fact brought about the demise of the dick-in-hand debauchery of the art form. With this said, following the pandemic, there has been a significant surge in cruising around the world. I guess all of that time pent-up quarantining had all of our pants bursting at the seams. Cruising spots around the world have all seen a resurgence of the sport, brimming with boys busting loads in every direction. Blessed be.

Apps like Sniffies have played a pivotal role in the contemporary renaissance of gay cruising. With its sleek interface and user-friendly design, Sniffies serves as a digital compass, guiding unabashed cock-hungry hunks to the pulsating epicenter of their local cruising scene. By seamlessly connecting like-minded sluts seeking NSA action, Sniffies has effectively bridged the gap between the timeless energy of traditional cruising and the convenience of modern technology. Happy hunting, gents.

In a society marked by rapid technological advancements and evolving social norms, these apps have emerged as beacons of empowerment, solidarity, and uninhibited expression, reigniting the flame of cumaraderie. By seamlessly blending the allure of serendipitous encounters with the convenience of modern connectivity, they have carved a unique niche in the digital landscape, ushering in a new era of liberation, exploration, and... well, dick-n-ass for individuals seeking the thrill of cruising in the contemporary world.