Larry Flynt’s gesture in asking the federal government for a porn industry bailout is in part just that – a gesture. I’m sure he knows good and well that in fact the government won’t give them a few billion dollars to ensure that American’s sexual appetite remain quenched.

This is the kind of story that the traditional media would never take seriously. The only time we will give this story media attention is if Larry Flynt makes a stunt. I think we can do better – and if we raise another $200, we will.

The headline “World’s Oldest Profession Not Recession Proof” was brazened through the blogosphere. This is partly because the headline (and sex) sells. Hey – I realize this is a funny story and kudos to Larry for making a scene with sex (again) and proving a point about the bailout.

But the truth is: We have no idea and this is a serious question that deserves a real and serious answer. Some reports suggest that sex as an escape thrives during hard economic times. A recent study says the sale of sex toys and lingerie are up since the economy hit bottom. Others show it in decline.

While sex workers might be overlooked – they are a real community that deserve serious media attention beyond mere giggles and jibbing headlines. Just as illegal aliens in the United States require thoughtful, fair and thorough coverage of issues that pertain to them, so does the sex community.

In San Francisco that community, lead by BaySwan, Desiree Alliance and others have lead an effort to change the laws around prostitution or speak out against violence on sex workers.

This is a story that needs to be localized, especially here in San Francisco where the sex industry ranges from prostitution to strip clubs and large porn makers like Kink.com or sex shops like Good Vibrations.

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So what is the situation of the sex industry here in San Francisco, a city with a sexual concious that is traditional ahead of the curve?

All we need is to raise another $200 and a reporter on Spot.Us will do a long-form 2,000 article on this very topic. I don’t suspect the SF Chroncile will write this story – but somebody should.