SIECUS Board Policy Position Statements 2024
Since its inception, SIECUS has taken stands on major issues that impact sex, sexuality, and sexual health in our society. SIECUS invites other organizations and individuals to join in affirming these statements and in working for their implementation.
Human Sexuality / Sexual Rights / Sexual Health / Sexuality Education / Culture and Society
HUMAN SEXUALITY
Human sexuality encompasses the sexual knowledge, beliefs, attitudes, values, and behaviors of individuals. Its various dimensions involve the anatomy, physiology, and biochemistry of the sexual response system; identity, orientation, roles, and personality; and thoughts, feelings, and relationships. Sexuality is influenced by ethical, spiritual, cultural, and moral concerns. All persons are sexual, in the broadest sense of the word.
SEXUALITY THROUGHOUT THE LIFESPAN
Sexual feelings, desires, and activities are present throughout the life cycle. SIECUS believes that all people have the right to education about sexuality, sexual health care, and sexual expression appropriate to their age and stage of life. Age-appropriate education and information concerning sexual feelings, attitudes, and behavior should be available to all individuals, their families, health care providers, and other caregivers.
SEXUALITY OF PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES
SIECUS believes that individuals with physical, cognitive, or emotional disabilities have a right to education about sexuality, sexual health care, and opportunities for socializing and sexual expression. Health care workers, caregivers, and special education teachers must receive training in understanding and supporting sexual development, behavior, and related health care for individuals with disabilities. The policies and procedures of schools, social agencies and health care delivery systems should ensure that services, resources (including information and educational materials) and benefits are provided to all persons without discrimination.
SEXUALITY OF PERSONS WITH RACIALIZED IDENTITIES/ EXPERIENCES
SIECUS believes that individuals with racialized identities and experiences (e.g. people of color or Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) have the right to experience sexuality and reproduction free from shame, stigma, state-based control. People with racialized identities must retain control over their bodily autonomy, reproductive health and decision-making, and have freedom to obtain the health care, services, and products of their choice. Any state-based efforts to control or restrict this access is oppressive and dangerous. In addition, the field of sex education has the responsibility to help normalize and destigmatize the sexuality and reproductive decision-making of people with racialized via curriculum and resources that acknowledges, addresses, and affirms the sexual and reproductive history, rights, and reality of people with racialized identities.
SEXUAL RIGHTS
Sexual rights are human rights, and they are based on the inherent freedom, dignity, and equality of all human beings. Sexual rights include the right to bodily integrity, sexual safety, sexual privacy, sexual pleasure, and sexual health care; the right to make free and informed sexual and reproductive choices; and the right to have access to sexual information based on sound scientific evidence.
HUMAN TRAFFICKING
Human trafficking is a grave and pervasive violation of human rights, affecting millions of people worldwide. It is a crime that exploits individuals for various purposes, including forced labor, sexual exploitation, and other forms of modern-day slavery. Trafficking is not consensual sex work, transactional or survival sex, and/or assisting people moving across state lines to access sexual and reproductive healthcare (e.g. abortion services, HIV care, gender affirming care, etc.). Education and public awareness play a crucial role in identifying and preventing human trafficking. Raising awareness about the signs of trafficking, vulnerable populations, and the tactics employed by traffickers can empower individuals and communities to identify and report suspicious activities. Educational programs can contribute to the prevention of trafficking and the protection of vulnerable individuals.
GENDER IDENTITY, EQUALITY, AND EQUITY
SIECUS believes that gender equality and equity are fundamental human rights. Society must recognize how gender-based stereotyping and discrimination, including prejudice toward transgender, transsexual, non-binary, and intersex individuals, can result in harmful consequences, such as gender-based violence, health care and public facility restrictions, and sexual, physical, and psychological abuse. Gender-based stereotypes must be eliminated, and the use of gender-inclusive and -expansive language promoted. Additionally, the legal system should guarantee the civil rights and protection of all people, regardless of gender, gender identity, or gender expression.
ROMANTIC AND SEXUAL RELATIONSHIPS
SIECUS believes that individuals have the right to choose to enter into romantic and sexual relationships as well as the right to choose not to do so. SIECUS believes that all romantic and sexual relationships should be consensual between partners who are developmentally, physically, and emotionally capable of giving this consent. Responsible romantic and sexual relationships should be based on shared personal values, and any type of sexual activity should be consensual, non-exploitive, honest, pleasurable, and safe. Because many adolescents are or will be sexually active, they should receive support and assistance in developing the skills to evaluate their readiness for mature romantic and sexual relationships.
SEXUAL VIOLENCE
SIECUS believes coerced and exploitative sexual acts and behaviors such as rape, incest, sexual relations between adults and children, sexual abuse, and sexual harassment are always reprehensible. Information and education programs should teach means of preventing such acts, and communities should enforce laws to punish them. Communities should support treatment programs to help survivors and offenders as well as research to increase understanding of the causes and effects of sexual exploitation.
SEXUAL ORIENTATION
SIECUS believes that individuals have the right to live in accordance with their sexual orientation whether they are bisexual, heterosexual, gay, or lesbian, pansexual, same-gender loving, asexual. The legal system should guarantee the civil rights and protection of all people, regardless of sexual orientation. Prejudice and discrimination based on sexual orientation is unethical and immoral.
TRANSGENDER IDENTITY
SIECUS firmly believes in the urgent need to address the pressing issues surrounding transgender rights, safety, and liberation. Trans liberation is a fundamental component of the broader struggle for justice. We stand committed to calling on society to confront and eradicate the political, legal, and social violence enacted against transgender communities. We are dedicated to advancing policies that promote trans liberation, uphold the principles of justice and equality, and create a future where all individuals, regardless of their gender identity, can live authentically and without fear.
DECRIMINALIZATION
Decriminalizing human sexuality (e.g., sexual orientation, gender identity, etc.), sexual and reproductive health care, and same sex relationships is a crucial step towards creating a more just and equitable society. SIECUS opposes efforts to add criminal penalties related to HIV status, gender identity, sex work, menstrual tracking, and other coercive efforts imposed on sexual and reproductive health and behaviors. By removing punitive legal measures for actions that do not harm others or are related to personal identities, we can foster an environment of compassion, understanding, and empowerment for individuals, ultimately leading to more effective prevention and care efforts. Decriminalization of sexual and reproductive health care and behaviors reduces stigma, discrimination, and misconceptions related to human sexuality which can deter individuals from disclosing their status, seeking treatment, or engaging in safe practices.
SEXUAL HEALTH
All people have a right to health care services that promote, maintain, and if needed, restore sexual and reproductive health. Health care providers should assess sexual and reproductive health needs and concerns as integral parts of each individual’s health and wellness care and make appropriate resources available.
ADOLESCENT SEXUAL HEALTH
SIECUS believes that becoming a sexually healthy adult is an important, natural and normal developmental milestone of adolescence. Professionals, including educators, health care providers, and social service providers, should promote adolescent sexual health by providing accurate information and education about sexuality, and by assuring access to sexual and reproductive health care. Society can enhance adolescent sexual health by providing access to sexuality education that aligns with the National Sex Education Standards and affordable, sensitive, and confidential reproductive health care services.
ACCESS TO REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH SERVICES
SIECUS believes that all people, regardless of race, geography, age, or income, should have access to affordable, confidential sexual health services including, but not limited to, access to methods of contraception and disease prevention, testing for HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases, abortion, fertility and prenatal care. Access to care should be the decision of the person receiving the care.
ACCESS TO CONTRACEPTION
Access to contraception is a fundamental human right, crucial for the health, well-being, and autonomy of individuals, especially young people. Access to contraception empowers young people to make informed decisions about their reproductive health, allowing them to plan when and if to start a family. This contributes to healthier pregnancies, reduces unintended pregnancies, and supports overall well-being. By respecting the rights of young people to access contraception, we affirm their capacity to make responsible, informed choices about their sexual health, contributing to a more empowered and confident generation.
RIGHT TO ABORTION CARE
SIECUS believes that every person has the human right to maintain personal bodily autonomy, have children, not have children, and parent the children they have in safe and sustainable communities. This includes the right to obtain an abortion under safe, legal, affordable, easily accessible, confidential, and dignified conditions regardless of where they live, their age or their income. Everyone is entitled to have full knowledge of the options available to them, and to obtain complete and unbiased information and counseling.
SIECUS believes that abortion counseling and services should be provided by professionals specially trained in this field. SIECUS believes that it is unethical for any organization to use anti-abortion propaganda, misinformation, manipulation, or fear and shame tactics to dissuade women facing unintended pregnancy from exercising their right to choose.
SIECUS further believes that violence against abortion providers and harassment intended to impede women’s access to these providers are unconscionable attempts to undermine women’s reproductive rights and should be decisively prosecuted by the justice system.
GENDER AFFIRMING CARE: ENSURING DIGNITY, HEALTH, AND WELL-BEING
Providing gender-affirming care is a fundamental human rights issue that prioritizes the dignity, health, and well-being of transgender and gender diverse individuals. SIECUS believes that affirming healthcare practices acknowledge the inherent worth and autonomy of all individuals which fosters a more inclusive and compassionate healthcare system that respects the diversity and experiences of all its patients. Recognizing the rights and dignity of transgender and gender diverse individuals, we advocate for accessible, affirming, and culturally sensitive healthcare services that support their physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
HIV/AIDS
SIECUS believes that the global HIV/AIDS pandemic must remain a top priority for governments, non-governmental organizations, philanthropic entities, corporations, academic institutions, medical professionals, scientists, the media, and societies around the world. Individuals deserve access to accurate information about HIV/AIDS, as well as evidence-based prevention programs and methods. HIV testing, treatment, and care must be widely accessible and affordable, and only provided with informed consent. All HIV/AIDS testing, treatment, and care and any related reporting requirements should be done in a manner that ensures the privacy and confidentiality of the individual. Governments and private entities must work together to ensure progress in reducing the spread of HIV and improving care and treatment options for those individuals already impacted by the pandemic.
HEALTH CARE PRACTITIONERS TRAINING
SIECUS believes that all healthcare practitioners should be well trained in the areas of sexuality and sexual and reproductive health. Professional training for all health care practitioners, including continuing education programs, should address medical, ethical, legal, and cultural aspects of sexuality. Health care practitioners are expected to provide care that is unbiased and meets the medical and psychological needs of each patient.
SEXUALITY EDUCATION
Sexuality education is a lifelong process that begins at birth. Parents/caregivers, family, peers, partners, schools, religious organizations, and the media influence the messages people receive about sexuality at all stages of life.
All people have the right to accurate information and age- and developmentally appropriate education about sexuality. Sexuality education should address the biological, sociocultural, psychological, and spiritual dimensions of sexuality within the cognitive learning domain (information), the affective learning domain (feelings, values, and attitudes), and the behavioral learning domain (communication, decision-making, and other skills).
SCHOOL-BASED SEXUALITY EDUCATION
SIECUS believes that high-quality school-based sexuality education that is evidence-based, appropriate to students’ age, developmental level, and cultural background, and inclusive of LGBTQIA+, is an important part of the K-12 school curriculum. Programs should address intersectionality and be trauma informed. A sexuality program aligned with the National Sex Education Standards will provide medically accurate information, recognize the diversity of values and beliefs represented in the community, and complement and augment the sexuality education children receive from their families, religious and community groups, and health care professionals.
TEACHER TRAINING
SIECUS believes that classroom teachers and community educators who teach about sexuality should be well trained on the principles, content, and best practices for providing sexuality education. Teachers should also have access to updated and current sexuality information, curricula, and materials.
SIECUS further believes that all pre-kindergarten through twelfth-grade teachers should receive training that aligns with the Professional Learning Standards for Sex Education, as created by the Sex Education Collaborative, in order to be able to address potential issues and questions about sexuality.
UPHOLDING THE RIGHTS OF STUDENTS
It is critically important that the rights of students within educational institutions are safeguarded. SIECUS recognizes students as active participants in their own education, we advocate for the protection and promotion of their rights to ensure a conducive learning environment that fosters personal growth and academic success.
Every student has the fundamental right to access a high-quality education that is inclusive, equitable, and tailored to their individual needs. This encompasses access to experienced educators and up-to-date resources. Educational institutions should provide platforms for students to engage in constructive discussions, allowing them to explore different perspectives and develop a deeper understanding of complex issues free from censorship. All students have the right to learn in an environment free from discrimination, bullying, and harassment. Educational institutions must take proactive measures to prevent and address any form of discrimination based on race, gender, religion.
PARENTS AS SEXUALITY EDUCATORS
SIECUS believes that parents and caregivers are—and ought to be—their children’s primary sexuality educators as they are in the best position to provide moral and value guidance and support for their children. SIECUS recognizes that a number of factors, including lack of knowledge, skills, or comfort, may impede a parent’s or caregiver’s successful fulfillment of that role. SIECUS believes that communities, schools, faith-based institutions, the media, and professional sexuality educators should help parents by providing training, resources, understanding, and encouragement. Furthermore, SIECUS believes that all K-12 public schools should provide instruction according to the National Sex Education Standards in order to support students who do not receive sex education in the home and, to supplement and support learning in the home.
CULTURE AND SOCIETY
Sexuality is an intrinsic component of human identity. The variety of cultural beliefs, values, and customs related to sexuality has profound influence on both society and individuals. Cultural beliefs and norms are influenced and expressed through many institutions including families, communities, schools, faith-based organizations, and mass media. These institutions have an obligation to affirm sexuality in ways that support the sexual health and rights of all members of any society.
SEXUALITY AND RELIGION
SIECUS believes that religion can play a significant role in promoting an understanding of sexuality as an intrinsic part of all humans. As trusted institutions, faith-based organizations are in a unique position to provide holistic, values-based, comprehensive sexuality education. SIECUS believes that religious and spiritual leaders and organizations have a responsibility to affirm and support the sexual rights of all members of their communities. SIECUS opposes religious proselytizing in public education and rejects religiously-motivated behaviors that remove or reduce human dignity and civil rights.
SEXUALITY AND THE MEDIA
SIECUS believes that the media, including social media, has a responsibility to present the complexities of human sexuality at all stages of the life cycle in a manner that is medically accurate, sensitive to diversity, and free of exploitation, prejudice, gratuitous sexual violence, and dehumanizing sexual portrayals.
We acknowledge that technology poses additional concerns especially as it relates to the safety of minors. There is a growing threat of “deepfake” technology, as well as the risk of easy transmission of voluntary and exploitative sexually explicit content. We encourage private companies to put age protections into place and appeal to the government to encourage technology platforms to prohibit the creation and dissemination of content for malicious purposes. We support media literacy and porn literacy education programs and believe they are a necessary component of sex education so that individuals are better equipped with the skills necessary to critically consume media content and recognize harmful and unsafe behaviors.
SEXUALLY EXPLICIT MATERIALS
SIECUS believes that adults (individuals ages 18+) should have the right to access sexually explicit materials that reflect consensual and legal relationships and that have been produced in accordance with existing law. Sexually explicit materials refer to any content, including but not limited to images, videos, literature, or other media that is intended to sexually arouse or appeal to adult audiences. Legislative and judicial efforts to prevent the production or distribution of sexually explicit materials endanger constitutionally guaranteed freedoms of speech and press, and could be employed to restrict the appropriate professional use of such materials by sexuality educators, therapists, and researchers.
Sexually explicit materials cannot be conflated with sexual health educational teaching materials. Sexual health educational teaching materials can be valuable when sensitively used in a manner appropriate to the viewer’s age and developmental level. Such materials can help reduce ignorance and confusion and contribute to a positive concept of sexuality while supporting the sexual rights of all. However, the use of violence, exploitation, or degradation, or the portrayal of children in sexually explicit materials is reprehensible.
CENSORSHIP
SIECUS believes that all people have the right of intellectual freedom and have the right to access diverse perspectives and ideas. Book banning, the act of prohibiting or restricting access to books and curricula, as well as limitations on internet access, social media, or other forms of media, undermines these core values. SIECUS believes in promoting a society that values inclusivity, critical thinking, and the open exchange of ideas.