SIECUS Hosts Nationwide Sex Ed Week of Action

For Immediate Release:​​

February 15, 2022

WASHINGTON, DC – This week from February 14-18, 2022, SIECUS: Sex Ed for Social Change is hosting a national Sex Ed Week of Action with its Sex Education Policy Action Council (SEPAC) to take collective and direct action as a top priority issue during 2022 state legislative sessions. The week of action will include both in-person and virtual events including lobby days, youth led sex education sessions and community meet and greets  in key states, along with a digital campaign on the importance of comprehensive sex education.

Chris Soyong Harley, President and CEO of SIECUS released the following statement:

“The majority of Americans, regardless of political affiliation, believe sex education should be taught in schools. States that teach comprehensive sex education in their curriculum see lower STI rates, lower teen pregnancy rates and overall better well-being of students across the country. We are enthusiastic to see our national and state partners engage in our week of action to advocate for all students.”

Currently, only 33 states mandate sex education, and an overwhelming 34 states mandate sex or HIV/STI education to stress abstinence over other forms of contraceptive options. Only 13 states require sex education to include instruction on consent; 10 states have policies that affirm sexual orientation and gender identity; and many states explicitly require instruction that discriminates against LGBTQ+ youth.

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SIECUS: Sex Ed for Social Change has served as the national voice for sex education for more than 55 years, asserting that sexuality is a fundamental part of being human, one worthy of dignity and respect. Through policy, advocacy, education, and strategic communications efforts, SIECUS advances sex education as a vehicle for social change—working toward a world where all people can access and enjoy sexual and reproductive freedom as they define it for themselves