February is Sexual Health Awareness Month and Campus Health, the LGBTQ Pride Center, the Counseling Center, Women’s Center, University Housing and several additional campus partners are working diligently to educate the campus community about this important topic.
After the month kicked off with “Let’s Talk About Sex” on Friday, Feb. 7, a slew of additional events are scheduled to help the Wolfpack learn about the importance of sexual health in welcoming, comfortable environments.
The month focuses on the education and promotion of sexual health, no matter what level of sexual activities an individual engages in. From prevention efforts to testing, it‘s important students are equipped with knowledge and skills to keep themselves and others safe and healthy when it comes to their sexual health.
“Acknowledging and recognizing Sexual Health Awareness Month is crucial because it encourages open and honest conversations about topics that are often considered taboo,” said Ananya Venkatachalam, a peer educator in the Pack Peers program. “Each person’s level of knowledge can vary based on their environment and experiences. For many, their university health centers and peers are the only ways they can discuss these things. On a college campus, these events help to promote a safe space for students to learn about sexual health, ask questions and reduce stigma. By providing accessible resources and support, we can ensure students know how to make the most individually empowering choices.”
The month will feature access to several important resources for students, including the distribution of condoms and other sexual health materials in partnership with Wake County Health and Human Services, who will also be conducting free and anonymous sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing on campus.
“This month provides an excellent opportunity for students to reflect on their well-being, specifically when it comes to their sexual health,” said Daniel Passonno, health educator with Campus Health. “We’re invested in supporting all students so it’s important to host these events and promote services to empower students to make informed decisions that can keep themselves and others safe and healthy when it comes to sexual activity. The events throughout this month highlight themes of empowerment, education, relationships, self-love and campus/community resources.”
In addition to these resource-related events, Campus Health and its partners will hold multiple educational sessions.
Foremost among these is the signature “Sex in the Dark” event, scheduled for Feb. 18 in Talley Student Union.
Hosted by Campus Health, the Counseling Center, Women’s Center, LGBTQ Pride Center and University Housing, this event allows participants to anonymously ask a panel of “sex-perts” questions about sex, sexuality or relationships or listen and learn. Snacks, drinks and glowsticks will be available. To pay homage to the event’s name and so guests can be anonymous, this event will be held in a dimly lit ballroom to encourage participants to ask their questions bravely.
Before the main panel conversation, a Sexual Health Resources Fair will be offered for students.
“Sexual Health Awareness Month emphasizes our university’s commitment to fostering a community that centers student well-being,” said Jae Edwards, assistant director at the LGBTQ Pride Center. “Sexual health and pleasure can be an intimidating topic for folks to openly discuss, but by coming together as a community, we can decrease the stigma and increase safer sex practices.”
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