WORLD SEXUAL HEALTH DAY
On September 4th, World Sexual Health Day brings greater awareness of sexual health. Managed by the World Association for Sexual Health (WAS), the day also celebrates sexuality and promotes sexual rights.
What exactly is sexual health? Sexual health involves the state of physical, mental, and social well-being regarding sexuality. However, sexual health isn’t just about relationships. Our sexual health influences medical issues, education, and sexual behavior. The observance also tackles issues including unplanned pregnancies and safer sex practices.
Part of being sexually healthy is having a respectful attitude toward sexuality. Besides sexual health, sexual rights are a central topic on World Sexual Health Day. Some examples of sexual rights include the right to:
- equality and non-discrimination
- autonomy and bodily integrity
- be free from all forms of violence and coercion
- privacy
- the highest attainable standard of health, including sexual health
- accurate information
- education
- decide to have children and how many to have
- access justice
HOW TO OBSERVE #SexualHealthDay
Through the years, schools, hospitals, public squares, and universities have participated in the day. Organizations from theater groups and NGOs, celebrities, politicians, and ordinary individuals also celebrate. Annual events in North America include a writing competition and a conference at Stanford University.
Learn more about the importance of sexual health. Take part in a conference or listen to a podcast that discusses sexual health. If you speak another language, contact WAS about translating their declaration of sexual rights.
If you have children, and they are the appropriate age, talk to them about the importance of safe sex. You can also discuss with them how avoiding sexual risk can help them achieve success later on in life. Share information that deals with preventing unplanned pregnancies and sexually transmitted diseases.
When sharing on social media, be sure to use #WorldSexualHealthDay
WORLD SEXUAL HEALTH DAY HISTORY
World Association for Sexual Health (WAS) promotes World Sexual Health Day. The first observance took place in 2010. Throughout the years, different slogans help to promote the celebration. For example, the slogan of the first-ever observance of the day was, “Let’s talk about it!” Slogans through the years have included:
- 2012: “In a diverse world, sexual health for all!”
- 2015: “Sexual health for a fairer society.”
- 2018: “Sexual health and sexual rights are FUNDAMENTAL for well-being – celebrating 40 years of the World Association for Sexual Health.”
- 2019: “Sexuality education for all: a bridge to sexual health.”
The initiative was proposed by Rosemary Coats, the president of Australia in 2010. Since its inception, the day has become a global event, celebrated by 35 countries.
