Earlier today I emceed the annual spring fundraising event for the Illinois Caucus for Adolescent Health (ICAH), an organization that advocates for comprehensive sexuality education for youth. There was a wonderful film shown about ICAH’s work (the film was by documentary filmmaker Ruth Leitman, of the School of the Art Institute of Chicago), and Rep. Jan Schakowsky gave a spot-on talk related to adolescent health issues (she was accompanied by her husband and her dedicated intern, Jake). Amy Lehman, as co-chair, tied the event together beautifully – she and her team chose the Society for Arts (1112 N Milwaukee) as the venue, as it has lovely gallery and event space, and the silent auction items were a hit. Overall, it was just very reassuring and inspiring to connect with people around these important adolescent health issues. I truly believe, and science certainly suggests, that if we provide young people with accurate information about sexuality (and info that is age and developmentally appropriate) then they can have brighter, healthier futures. Thanks to ICAH for including me in their annual event. To learn more about ICAH, visit their web site.
About Dr. Debby Herbenick
Dr. Debby Herbenick is a sex researcher at Indiana University, sexual health educator at The Kinsey Institute, columnist, and author of five books about sex and love. Learn more about her work at www.sexualhealth.indiana.edu.