33 Years Ago, Baltimore Freaked Out Over This Orgy Advertisement

Using shock to raise awareness of teen pregnancy

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When it comes to the birds and the bees, most people would agree that a talk between parents and their children is a good idea. Of course, nudging mom and dad to start that squirmy discussion is another matter entirely. Three decades ago, Planned Parenthood devised a novel way to try. In the fall of 1986, billboards and bus posters popped up around Baltimore featuring an inquisitive pre-pubescent boy posing the question: “What’s an Orgy?”

Adweek, which is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, was among the many media outlets to say uh-oh over this one.

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