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Four diverse adult friends, including a man with Down syndrome, laugh and talk together at an outdoor café table.

Sex Ed vs. Sexuality Education: Why the Words We Use Matter

Many people hear the words “sex ed” and assume the topic is sexual activity. That is one of the biggest misconceptions about sexuality education for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The act of sex is only one small part of sexuality. Most of what we teach is about relationships, communication, boundaries, consent, identity, and belonging. Those are the skills that reduce vulnerability to abuse and open up connection, confidence, and independence. Read more about: Sex Ed vs. Sexuality Education: Why the Words We Use Matter

Diverse group of self-advocates, parents, and professionals smiling and learning together in an Elevatus Training workshop on understanding your body and sexual anatomy.

Inside and Out: Understanding Your Body – Sexual Anatomy and Medical Terms for People with I/DD

Knowing the correct medical terms for sexual body parts supports bodily autonomy, safety, clear communication, and protection from harm. This article provides accessible guidance for self-advocates, families, and supporters on sexual anatomy, using respectful language and resources tailored for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Read more about: Inside and Out: Understanding Your Body – Sexual Anatomy and Medical Terms for People with I/DD

Graphic showing, 3 faces - unhappy, neutral, and happy

Healthy, Unhealthy, or Unsafe? A Relationship Check-In Guide for People with I/DD

This guide walks you through the three types of relationships — healthy, unhealthy, and unsafe — and provides a practical, step-by-step tool for honestly examining the connections in your own life. Whether you are a person with I/DD working through this on your own or a supporter helping someone you care about, the steps below will help you see clearly and decide what comes next. Read more about: Healthy, Unhealthy, or Unsafe? A Relationship Check-In Guide for People with I/DD

Graphic indicating the article is an interview

Self-Advocate Perspective: Tina Fitzgerald on Disability, Sexuality, and Safe Relationships

Tina Fitzgerald is a disability rights self-advocate who works to promote understanding of sexuality, healthy relationships, and safety for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. She is also an Elevatus Training Adjuct Trainer. Drawing on her personal and professional experience, she emphasizes the importance of open education, informed choice, and challenging stigma around disability and sexuality. Read the full interview below to learn more about her perspective and work. Read more about: Self-Advocate Perspective: Tina Fitzgerald on Disability, Sexuality, and Safe Relationships

Graphic image showing all Sexual Rights, with Safety highlighted.

Sexual Rights: Safety, Empowering Self-Advocates to Keep Themselves Safe

People with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) deserve the knowledge and skills to help keep themselves safe. Learning about consent, boundaries, healthy relationships, and personal safety can help people recognize risks, communicate their needs, make informed choices, and advocate for themselves. This article explores why sexual safety education matters and shares practical ways to support self-advocacy, confidence, and safe relationships. Read more about: Sexual Rights: Safety, Empowering Self-Advocates to Keep Themselves Safe

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