CHLP Executive Director Catherine Hanssens spoke with The Appeal about how criminalizing consensual sexual contact is a “pointless, dangerous and stigmatizing response” to a public health issue, and how reform efforts must end the “irrational and unconscionable” use of sex offender registries.
CHLP Staff Attorney Jada Hicks spoke with Filter magazine about how the Florida law does have some positive reforms but does not decriminalize those most affected by not addressing existing sentencing enhancements that are leveled against sex workers who are HIV positive.
It was 70 years ago today that the UN General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. This document established the equal value and worth of every person in the world by championing the values of equality, justice, and human dignity. Those principles are just as relevant today; and now, as then, we must stand up for our rights and those of others.
The Consensus Statement invites state policymakers to collaborate with the coalition in developing policy and practice that ensures youth in their care and custody receive sound, inclusive sexual health care, consistent with prevailing medical standards and legal and ethical obligations. The statement calls for additional training for residents and staff in youth congregate care and detention settings that is inclusive of youth of all sexual orientations, gender identities and expressions as a predicate to ending institutional violence.
