To the Editor,

Most of us are uncomfortable talking about sex. But let’s take a moment and get past the blushing, because this conversation is so important. April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month, and this April communities across the country are proclaiming, “It’s time … to talk about it!” This year’s campaign encourages individuals and communities to bring healthy sexuality into the conversation on how we connect with and respect one another in order to prevent sexual violence.

By talking about “it” we are making the connection that promoting healthy behaviors encourages relationships that are consensual, respectful and informed. That is what healthy sexuality is about. Healthy sexuality is having the knowledge and power to express sexuality in ways that enrich our lives. Healthy sexuality is free from coercion and violence.