This handout is an empowering, plain-language booklet created by and with people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to define what sexual self-advocacy means in their own words.
Drawing on a community research forum at the University of Illinois Chicago, it affirms the sexual rights of people with disabilities and elevates core themes like making your own choices, knowing and respecting yourself, respecting others, speaking up, getting information, and building healthy, interdependent relationships.
Filled with powerful quotes from self-advocates, this resource highlights what needs to change so people with I/DD can fully express their sexuality and relationships, including:
Educating doctors, staff, and guardians to offer respectful, rights-based support
Removing systemic barriers and stigma in clinics, agencies, and communities
Expanding access to sexuality education, sexual health services, and counseling
Creating real opportunities for dating, partnership, privacy, and safe sexual expression
Ideal for: self-advocates, peer leaders, and self-advocacy groups, as well as educators, clinicians, and support professionals.
Note: This document description was co-created with AI and reviewed by the Elevatus team for accuracy.
Katherine McLaughlin, M.Ed., AASECT Certified Sexuality Educator, is the Founder, CEO, and Lead Trainer for Elevatus Training. She has been a sexuality educator and trainer for over 30 years. As a national expert on sexuality and intellectual and developmental disabilities, she trains professionals and parents, as well as people with I/DD, to become sexual self-advocates and peer sexuality educators.
