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Romance, Sexuality and Gender Identity

Romance, Sexuality and Gender Identity are challenging topics for many people to talk about. This challenge may be compounded when individuals have disabilities.

Here you will find some resources that will give you the knowledge and skills to talk openly about these topics and enable individuals with developmental disabilities to lead sexually healthy lives.

Romance

• Love, Dating, Relationships and Disability
• Love Because, Never Despite, Disability
• Toolkit: Sexual Assault Awareness for People with Developmental Disabilities
• Healthy Boundaries Lesson

Sexuality

• Is Asexuality Really a Thing? Isn’t it Actually a Disorder?
• In My Own Voice: Sexual Self-Advocacy

Gender Identity

• A Guide to Understanding Gender Identity and Pronouns : NPR
• National Center for Gender Identity – An advocacy organization working to change policies and society to increase understanding and acceptance of transgender people.
• Pride Wins: LGBTQ Rights & Resources – The National Education Association provides resources to navigate your rights ad to join together for safe and inclusive schools.
• Supporting LGBTQ+ People with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
• SAMHSA A Practitioner’s Resource Guide: Helping Families to Support Their LGBT Children
• PFLAG – Founded in 1973, PFLAG is the first and largest organization dedicated to supporting, educating, and advocating for LGBTQ+ people and their families. 

Additional Resources

• Finally, Disability Representation in Television and Film
• 4 Common Issues and Empowering Tips When Working with Parents
• Statement by HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra Reaffirming HHS Support and Protection for LGBTQI+ Children and Youth