Let’s talk about sex ed: YWCA launches new Alberta awareness campaign

The YWCA is launching a new campaign in Alberta that they say will give parents the tools to guide their child’s sexual health.

Previously, students at Alberta public schools were automatically included in sexual health classes unless parents or caregivers opted them out. But last year, amendments to Bill 27, the Education Amendment Act, changed the rules.

Starting this September, students will only take part in sexual health classes with written permission from their parents.

The YWCA’s campaign looks to make parents aware of the change in hopes they will choose to opt in.

“Parents are incredibly busy, and we know how the back-to-school timeframe works,” says Talia Bell, the YWCA’s chief programs and people officer. “So, I think it could be very easy to miss that and maybe not fully understand what the benefits are.”

“That’s a big reason for the campaign.”

Sexual education begins in Grade 4 at most of Calgary’s public schools.

Bell says not opting in would mean children would miss out on important life lessons.

“It’s a really important piece of learning about your own boundaries, well-being, body, and ability to make decisions about it,” she says.

She adds that research shows students who receive sexual health education are more likely to delay sexual activity, understand consent, and foster respect for themselves and others.

“The province has been very forward in their gender-based violence approach,” says Bell. “In terms of alignment, knowing what strong sexual education can provide for youth in school, it is not necessarily congruent with ending gender-based violence.”

In a statement, the Calgary Board of Education says it is aligning with legislation passed by the province to enhance transparency with families on sensitive topics. The board says parents can expect more information early in the upcoming school year.