Standing Together for Sexual Wellbeing and Justice

As we celebrate World Sexual Health Day this is a call for sexual justice for all

This coming week is World Sexual Health Day. Let’s pause to reflect on a subject that is often whispered about in the shadows yet is fundamental to our humanity: sexual justice. It may not be a topic you’ve thought about deeply, but let’s be honest — without it, no one can truly thrive. We can only truly thrive when everyone is thriving, not just a privileged few.

What is Sexual Justice? It’s the right of every person to freely and safely make decisions about their body, sexuality, and reproduction. It’s about ensuring access to vital sexual health services — education, care, and support — without discrimination, violence, or shame. It’s about building a world where everyone can experience sexual health, rights, and pleasure, fully and authentically, regardless of gender, identity, or circumstance.

Why Does It Matter? Sexual justice isn’t just a lofty ideal; it’s crucial. When it is denied, entire populations suffer as they get caught in cycles of silence, shame, and fear. Discrimination, GBV, social exclusion — these are real barriers to living fully and freely. And around the world, in our very own homes and communities, these injustices persist. Let’s shine the light on what’s really happening and take a stand to bring about transformation.

Take a moment to think about the resilience of those fighting for their rights in South Africa, in Afghanistan, in Yemen, and elsewhere. Thanks to leaders like our extraordinary, Dr. Elna Rudolph — outgoing chairlady of the World Association for Sexual Health (WAS) — we are defining standards and pushing for change. Yet, despite incredibly hard work that has led to some strides forward, the realities remain excruciatingly harsh for many.

In South Africa, we bear witness to this daily — from gender-based violence to the social stigmas that still shame survivors. It’s painful, but it can’t and mustn’t be ignored. Our work, our voice, our activism — no matter how small—can move the dial. We all have to do our part, or the needle will never move.

So, what can we do?

Change begins with each of us. Here are ten practical ways to stand for sexual justice in your life and community:

1. See Humanity First. Rethink how you view those different from you. Suspend your judgment. Be warmly curious. Everyone deserves dignity and respect.

   
   

2. Be Aware of Your Privilege. If you’re privileged — whether by race, gender, sexuality, or class—use that privilege to uplift others. Small acts, like respecting pronouns or inviting marginalized people to be included in your circle, can have ripple effects.

   
   

3. Challenge Your Biases. Meet all people with genuine curiosity and warmth. Tell the truth to yourself about your prejudices and the effect they have on people’s lives. Don’t minimise this effect. See it for the injustice it really is.

   
   

4. Speak Out Against Disrespect. Silence enables discrimination. When you

   witness bullying, shaming, or exclusion, speak up. Be a voice for those who need it most. All it takes for evil to prevail is for good men to say or do nothing

   (Edmund Burke). Inaction, apathy, complacency, from those who value justice

   allows wrongdoing to flourish and remain dominant.

   
   

5. Embrace Diversity in Being. There’s no one “right” way to be. Life is beautifully

   varied there’s your way of doing things and hundreds of other ways too. They are all fine, good ways to be. Honor diversity in yourself and others.

   
   

6. Open Your Mind on Gender. Gender is a spectrum, not a binary. Allow yourself

   to explore and accept fluidity — emotionally, physically, spiritually and sexually.

   
   

7. Prioritize Consent. Whatever your sexual encounters, negotiate clearly and

   honestly. Consent is the foundation of respect and safety — always. Be clear on

   your partner’s boundaries and always navigate them with care and respect.

   
   

8. Model Justice for Future Generations. Children learn through our actions, not

   just our words. Live every day, practicing fairness, honesty, and respect for all

   — because the future depends on it. Our children, ready to take the baton from us, are watching every move we make.

   
   

9. Reflect and Heal. Recognize the biases or judgments you hold — then work to

   change them, little by little. Be brutally honest, so you shine the light in every

   corner. Personal transformation is the first step toward societal change.

   
   

10. Respect Autonomy. Your body, your choice. Others’, too. Offer information,

    support, and space and allow people to choose for themselves. Trust that each

    individual is the expert in their own life. Whether it be to do with abortion,

    engaging with ethical porn, kink or any other decision, they know what’s right for them. Live and let live!

    
    

    This day reminds us: sexual justice is not just a lofty ideal, but a daily practice. It’s an act of love, courage, and unwavering belief in human dignity. When we commit to it, tiny shifts in our words, actions, and attitudes create ripples that can transform lives. Those ripples are powerful and eventually make our world a better place.

    
    

    Let’s stand together, fierce and compassionate, because everyone deserves to live in a world where their sexuality is celebrated, respected, and protected.

    
    

    Join the movement. Embrace your power. Stand for sexual justice - for yourself, for others, for us all.