Happy World Sexual Health Day!

View this email in your browser Dear WAS Members and Friends,  Happy World Sexual Health Day! As we come together to celebrate under this year's theme of "+Positive Relationships," we are reminded of the profound impact these connections have on our health and well-being. In today's newsletter, we share the official WAS statement on +Positive Relationships, rooted in the WAS Declaration of Sexual Rights, highlighting the importance of respect, trust, equality, and justice in all aspects of our lives. As a final reminder, don't miss the official WAS WSHD webinar happening today at 3 pm SAST. This is a great opportunity to hear from leading voices in Sexual Health, Rights, Justice, and Pleasure across the globe. If you haven't registered yet, there's still time—join us and be part of this important conversation!   Register now to save your place at the WAS WSHD Webinar! WAS Statement on +Positive Relationships 4 September 2024: In recognition of World Sexual Health Day, celebrated this year under the theme of "Positive Relationships," the World Association for Sexual Health (WAS) underscores that the principles of Positive Relationships are deeply rooted in the WAS Declaration of Sexual Rights and are fundamental to the health and well-being of all individuals. Therefore, (WAS):  STATES that positive relationships are grounded in mutual respect, trust, equality, and justice, which are fundamental for the health and well-being of all individuals. RECOGNIZES that positive relationships are influenced by cultural, social, economic, and individual factors, and flourish where diversity is embraced, differences are respected, and sexual justice is upheld. AFFIRMS that positive relationships encompass a wide range of connections, including familial, romantic, platonic, and professional relationships. These relationships are built on communication, empathy, and a commitment to the well-being of all parties involved. MAINTAINS that positive relationships enhance emotional, mental, and social well-being, providing support, fulfillment, and personal growth, including the expression and enjoyment of sexual pleasure as a key aspect of human experience. DECLARES that fostering positive relationships requires a proactive and respectful approach to communication, conflict resolution, the expression of affection, and the pursuit of sexual justice—understanding these elements as crucial to sustaining healthy, equitable, and pleasurable connections. REAFFIRMS that positive, enriching relationships must be free from abuse, manipulation, coercion, and injustice, and must honor the dignity, autonomy, and sexual rights of each individual. STATES that equality, non-discrimination, and sexual justice are foundational to all positive relationships, prohibiting any distinction, exclusion, or restriction based on race, ethnicity, color, sex, language, religion, political or other opinion, national or social origin, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, health status, or any other status. ASSERTS that all individuals have the right to form, maintain, and dissolve relationships freely and with full and informed consent, without fear of stigma or discrimination, and with assurance of sexual justice and the right to sexual pleasure. PROCLAIMS that the promotion of positive relationships, grounded in respect, equality, pleasure, and justice, is integral to the development of a more compassionate, inclusive, and peaceful society. Read the full statement here On this World Sexual Health Day, let us commit to nurturing +positive relationships!  Warm regards, The World Association for Sexual Health Click here to visit the WAS website Not on our our mailing list yet? Sign up here! Copyright © 2024 World Association for Sexual Health (WAS), All rights reserved. You are receiving this newsletter because you have previously expressed interest in our content by opting in on our website or through participation in one of our online events, such as our monthly webinars. We're committed to keeping you informed with the latest updates and insights. Our mailing address is: World Association for Sexual Health (WAS) 1300 South 2nd Street Suite 180 West Bank Office Building Minneapolis, Minnesota 55454 Add us to your address book Want to change how you receive these emails? You can update your preferences or unsubscribe from this list.