Teen SENSE Model Policy: Sexual Health Literacy for Youth in State Custody, designed for use by agencies and jurisdictions that provide services for youth in out-of-home care, outlines the programming and resources necessary to increase young people's sexual health literacy. The model policy is a companion to Teen SENSE Model Standards: Sexual Health Literacy for Youth in State Custody, which sets forth in more detail this programming, including at least basic information related to pregnancy, STI and HIV transmission and prevention, sexual violence, and discrimination based on actual or perceived sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression; referrals and contact information for sexual and reproductive health care providers; and information on the nature and forms of sexual violence, abuse, and harassment. Both the facility environment and the attitude of instructors should reflect nonjudgmental, inclusive attitudes that create a comfortable space for youth of any sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression.
CHLP fights stigma and discrimination at the intersection of HIV, race, health status, disability, class, sexuality and gender identity and expression, with a focus on criminal and public health systems. As part of this work, we support movement building that amplifies the power of individuals and communities to mobilize for change rooted in racial, gender and economic justice. We do this through legal advocacy, high-impact policy initiatives, and creation of cross-issue partnerships, networks, and resources.
