Sexual Health Equity in Schools: Inclusive Sexuality and Relationship Education for Gender and Sexual Minority Students

ABSTRACT

This paper offers a review of school-based sexuality and relationship education as it relates to gender and sexual minority (GSM) students. Framed by a queer theory lens, the paper examines four main topics: (a) sexual health and relationship risks for GSM youth, (b) comprehensive school-based sexuality education as a protective factor for sexual health and relationship risks, (c) the current availability of relevant sexuality education for GSM students in the United States, and (d) inclusive schools as a social determinant of health. The author advocates for health equity, and offers suggestions for inclusive, comprehensive sexuality and relationship education to provide relevant, accurate, positive information for all students.

KEYWORDS:

• Social determinants of health
• gender and sexual minorities
• health equity
• LGBTQ students
• sexuality education

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Additional information

Notes on contributors

Emily Meadows

Author biographical statement: Emily Meadows has served extensively as a professional educator and counselor in international schools. She holds master's degrees in the fields of Counseling and Sexual Health, and is a current Doctor of Philosophy student in Comparative and International Education, researching inclusive school policy and practice for gender and sexual minorities. Emily works as a teaching assistant for The George Washington University's graduate department of LGBT Health Policy & Practice.