Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights of Young People With Disabilities

All people have different types of bodies and abilities, even young people, this is what makes us all unique-there is no such thing as a ‘perfect body’! Some people have different abilities-sometimes called disabilities or ‘differently-abled’-but really, it just means a unique way of living and experiencing the world. Around the globe, people talk about bodies and abilities differently. In some situations, people might not share that they have a disability. In other situations, people introduce themselves with their disability identity first, they might sign, ‘I am a deaf’, or sometimes people say things like ‘Hi my name is…, and I have a disability’. No matter how people communicate about their bodies and abilities, it is important to respect their choices and speak to them, and about them, in the ways they feel most affirmed and respected.

There are many ways people with disabilities experience the world; some people move around in wheelchairs, others communicate with sign language or computers, and some people have trusted adults who help them with daily tasks like making decisions, going to the bathroom, or coping with feelings. Moving our bodies and minds differently is what makes us all special-and is a great way to show our unique personalities-embrace and be proud of your unique self! It’s also important to remember that disabled people, however they identify, have the same rights, feelings, and wants as everyone else. This includes the desire to be in relationships and explore sexual and romantic feelings.

If you’re a disabled person, you probably have some of the same feelings about your body as your friends, like sexual or romantic feelings towards others, notice your body changing during puberty, and have questions about your body. Whatever you are feeling, know that it is natural and healthy, and you have the same human rights to these feelings, the information, and the services as your friends and classmates. This includes choosing to be or not be in relationships with others, making decisions about how you will care for your body when it goes through puberty or menstruates, communicating when and how people can touch you, and making decisions about birth control and pregnancy. Your body is yours, and even if you experience the world differently, you have a right to make the choices that are best for you!

Sometimes you might need help caring for your body, you might need someone to help you move, communicate, go to the bathroom, get dressed, or eat. If anyone touches your body without your permission, in a way that makes you feel uncomfortable, hurts you physically or emotionally, or pressures you to participate in sexual activity, tell your trusted adult immediately. If your trusted adult has hurt you, and you need help, feel confused, or need someone to talk to, google resources in your community for people with disabilities or ask an ally for support.

You probably know a person with a disability, even if you can’t see it. Being an ally means noticing when the rights of others aren’t being respected and helping them to make change. There are lots of ways to be an ally to disabled people. First, make sure to learn about the rights of others, including young disabled people. Remember that all people are individuals, and everyone has a right to make their own, unique decisions when it comes to their bodies; not everyone with the same disability will make the same choice, and everyone feels different about their disability. Next, speak up when you notice words and actions that are hurtful, physically or emotionally; tell a trusted adult or contact a local organization for help. If you feel like a friend’s rights have been violated, or someone has made them feel uncomfortable, or if something just isn’t quite right, talk to your trusted adult immediately, they can help you find support and get help. Don’t forget to include and work with disabled people in everything you do, whether it’s starting a club, making an online campaign, or changing rules at school or in your community. Most importantly, understand that sometimes you might make mistakes, there is no such thing as a perfect ally, but continue to learn, grow, and speak up!

Remember, working together to support the rights of all people is the best way to ensure the safety, health, and happiness of everyone!