Published: October 03, 2008 04:02 pm            

Readers' Forum: Oct. 6, 2008

Excellent editorial on sex education

I am writing to applaud the excellent editorial published in the Sept. 21 Tribune-Star. It highlights important evidence about what a great failure abstinence-until-marriage sex education has been. The piece includes two amazing quotes. The first, — “(Dr.) Reece is more interested in data from responsible analysis than he is in hypothetical morality” — underscores where science is on the public health concerns related to keeping Americans in the dark about sexuality – it just doesn’t make sense to withhold information.

The editorial closes with a second brilliant quote about abstinence-only education — “That kind of forced ignorance isn’t moral, it’s downright dangerous.”

Chilling and true. Far too many students in Indiana schools participate in sexuality education programs that withhold important information about harm reduction, and reinforce biased traditional gender roles. This is a problem that is paid for with federal tax dollars.

I teach college students about sexuality. I have for many years. It is not unusual for several members of my class of young adults to start the semester not knowing basic sexual anatomy and sexual functioning. Students report having grown up in families that did not discuss sexuality, and for many, their place of worship was silent as well.

We must do better. Insist that your local schools provide comprehensive and medically accurate sexuality education K-12.

— Kathleen Baldwin

Indianapolis



Special thanks for building ramp

I would like to thank the Western Indiana Community Action Agency, RSVP Program, Retired and Senior Volunteer Program, Newman Company, Inc., and the Janet Sue's Helping Hand — Wabash Valley Community Foundation.

A very special thanks to Paul Kelley, executive director of WICAA, Todd Newman, Brad Newman, Jack Newman, Newman Atkinson, David Jones, Tony Valentic, Kyle Newman, Dylan Newman, Geraldine Sowards and Patti Jones. The ramp that was recently constructed at my home was certainly more than I had imagined.

The dedication and enthusiasm the volunteers displayed was inspiring and before I knew it the ramp was completed.

Words cannot express my gratitude. I certainly appreciate all that the agency and programs have done to make life easier. Thanks again for your kindness.

— Harry K. Turner

Terre Haute

        

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