LGBTQ+ young people are valued members of every community in the country, yet only nine states mandate that sex education be inclusive of their experiences and contain information relevant to their sexual and reproductive health needs. Research shows that LGBTQ+ young people report disproportionate experiences of depression, bullying, and feelings of unsafety at school–and these experiences are even more common among LGBTQ+ youth of color. However, queer youth that do receive inclusive sex education are less likely to feel unsafe and report lower levels of victimization because of their identity.

“We should expect nothing less than #PrideInSexEd.”

It’s long past the time where we must demand better, not only for our LGBTQ+ young people, but for all adolescents and young adults.

When young people are affirmed in their sexual orientation and gender identities, the outcomes are overwhelmingly positive. And we should expect nothing less than #PrideInSexEd,” explained Janet Max, Interim President & CEO.

The LGBTQ+ Inclusive Sex Ed Week of Action is dedicated to highlighting the dire need for inclusive instruction. The week will feature webinars led by LGBTQ+ sex education experts, educators, advocates, and researchers and center stories from LGBTQ+ young people themselves. Week of action participants will also have opportunities to take digital action and join conversations on social media.

Healthy Teen Network stands with LGBTQ+ young people in demanding access to the sexual and reproductive health information, skills, and services that all young people need to properly care for themselves, their families, and their communities.