Women’s League endorses Ref. 90
League of Women Voters agrees: All of our children statewide deserve an equitable, inclusive, age appropriate, evidence-informed comprehensive sexual health education program that is consistent with state health and physical education learning standards. Thank you to Laura Demkovich (Spokesman-Review, Sept. 27) for her comprehensive article that explained the bill, the outcomes in local schools, and the pro/con arguments for ESSB 5395.
Quality sexual health education reduces risky behavior that results in unintended pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections. Young people need information to help them understand how to respect personal boundaries and understand the importance of affirmative consent before sexual activity. LGBTQ youth deserve to see themselves reflected positively in sexual health education. Young children need language and knowledge about inappropriate behavior so that they can communicate with trusted adults about such behavior. Socio-emotional learning is the focus for K-3 graders. The bill’s language specifies that sexual health education will not mix with other unrelated curricula.
School districts will have the opportunity to decide their own curriculum, that is scientifically and medically accurate. Parents will have the right to opt their children out. The bill specifies grade level age appropriate education for grades 6-12 (2021-22) and K-5 (2022-23) school year.
Safe and Healthy Youth of WA is in support of Ref. 90, and has formed a coalition – Approve90 – to retain ESSB 5395 as passed by the legislature. Along with the League of Women Voters of Washington, Planned Parenthood, and ACLU there are 250 endorsers including many youth groups.
Vote to Approve Referendum 90!
Aruna Bhuta, Action Chair, League of Women Voters, Spokane area
Spokane