Youth Deserve
Sex Education
Medically accurate, age-appropriate, and shame-free sex education is a powerful upstream approach to addressing intersectional social issues. Beyond teaching young people how to cultivate healthy relationships with themselves and others, sex education equips them to understand and navigate complex social dynamics related to their own identities and the diversity of those around them. This evidence-based program fosters safer, more inclusive school environments by reducing bullying, affirming sexual and gender diversity, delaying sexual initiation, decreasing risky behaviors, and enhancing media literacy. When implemented well, sex education supports a foundation for young people to engage in respectful, informed, and healthy relationships. Conversely, the absence of such programs often leads to school environments that are less safe and more hostile, particularly for students who are marginalized.