WORLD SEXUAL HEALTH DAY 4th September 2010

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 On September 4th, WAS will celebrate, for the first time the World Sexual Health Day with a great number of activities in many cities and towns around the globe. The above map shows the extent of activities: Yellow Commited, Blue: Confirmed activities, Red: International Organizations participating (updated Aug 30th)

CONCEPT: An international celebration of sexual health and sexual rights. The aim is to involve as many countries and cities within countries, as possible.

PURPOSE: To encourage discussion and recognition of sexual health as an integral part of overall health. To demonstrate that people have the right to discuss sexual matters and to access information and resources.

ETHOS: To be totally consistent with the values and aims of the World Association for Sexual Health. That is to promote and support the right to express one’s sexuality in a healthy and responsible way. WAS is committed to ethical and evidenced based practice.

ACTIVITIES: Group gatherings in public spaces.  ‘Flash Crowds’

Youth meets Elders forum: Let’s talk about….  An intergenerational exchange

Competition for the best web based sexual health campaign. Links to various campaigns through the WAS web site.

PROCESS: WAS will prepare packages to send to all participating organizations. This will ensure uniformity, a consistent message and will facilitate local organization. Country coordinators will work with local coordinators.  They will be responsible for arranging public venues e.g. Council permission to use open spaces; community hall; school sport centre etc.  All activities must be within the local legislation and sensitive to local mores. Organisers will invite representatives of the generations to participate in dialogues.  This will require an experienced facilitator and a recorder. Obtain informed consent for anonymous recording of stories and opinions. Full details will be provided in separate documents.

On the WAS web site there will be hidden pages for “members only” to organize and roll out the event. The site will provide access to request templates and other resources.  If sufficient sponsorship is achieved T-shirts with the WAS logo (and sponsor’s logo) will be provided to in country organisers.

PROMOTION: Internet to ensure large participation using YouTube and Twitter to target youth. The WAS web site will also publicize and have links. The message will be positive to create a “buzz”. The event will be placed on the public calendar of events.

PUBLICITY: to be consistent and rolled out at appropriate intervals. Press releases in several languages.

OTHER PARTICIPANTS: Invite local NGOs in related areas e.g. Family Planning; International Planned Parenthood. Other community organisations including: YMCA; YWCA; Girl Power; Senior Citizens; must ensure we include people with disabilities and special interests.

SPONSORSHIP: Seek support from companies and organisations with similar interests and commitment.

Rosemary Coates

President