The research is clear, when people have accurate, accessible information they make healthy, positive choices for themselves and others. When we have the understanding that human sexuality is normal and healthy and the confidence to express ourselves and ask questions without shame, we have autonomy and control over all aspects of our lives. This greatly increases the quality of our relationships and therefore the quality of our lives.

Sexual health education content is often not adapted to meet the needs of individuals with social and/or cognitive impairments. Neurodivergent individuals report that material was not covered adequately, not taught directly using a variety of modalities or that different learning styles were not considered.  Self-advocates were not given the time, attention, and repetition necessary to achieve mastery of the concepts. This results in students leaving high school and becoming adults that are not equipped to navigate everyday life situations because they did not have adequate education and learning opportunities. 

The consequences for individuals and our entire community can be severe, such as: 

• Isolation, loneliness, limited social involvement

• The basic human right of bodily autonomy not being honoured

• Being taken advantage of emotionally, physically, or financially in an unhealthy relationship and or remaining in an abusive relationship

• Unfulfilled dreams of independence and being in a relationship