Ref. 90: Studies actually back sexual health education

I searched for articles on the impact of comprehensive sex education in Illinois, New York and California. I could find nothing to replicate Chris Beard’s claims in his Oct. 20 letter to the editor, except one article by Mary Margaret Olohan, “Here are the Details on California’s Sex Education” in the Daily Caller, a right-wing news and opinion website. By contrast I found numerous articles with these states reporting lower incidents of unintended pregnancies and STDs.

Too many students are at risk because they do not receive honest and medically accurate sexual health instruction. In states with CSE, students report confidence and empowerment and skills to protect themselves.

The bill passed in Washington has an overwhelming majority of Washington state parents, teachers, psychologists, medical professionals. All young people have the right to the information and skills, they need to protect their health, understand healthy relationships and to see their identities and experiences reflected in any curriculum.

If covid-19 has taught us anything, it’s that we all need honest and accurate information to stay well and save lives. Vote yes on R-90 for the well-being of our kids.

Cathy Ferbrache

Bothell