Sex Educator Vetting Process for Events

Understanding the Importance of a Thorough Sex Educator Vetting Process

In this article, we will discuss the importance of a thorough sex educator vetting process to ensure safe and inclusive events. This guide will cover key considerations, such as ethics, qualifications, and consent awareness, when selecting knowledgeable and professional presenters. By prioritizing the sex educator vetting process, event producers can create a safer and more empowering environment for all attendees.

Vetting sex educators for sex positive events seems lacking in some places. There have been many discussions about Sex Educators and the sex industry as a whole. The one thing that has been the most disturbing is that there are multiple reports of sexual assaults within these events that are supposed to be safer (sex-positive) spaces. Is the person board certified or a self-proclaimed “expert”? What are the power dynamics at play? Are some of these “experts” just sexual opportunists disguised as sex educators? You may not catch everything, but there are steps you can take to ensure that the sex educators you are aligning with are in alignment with your mission, values, and a safe entity to have on site.

Tips for selecting ethical and knowledgeable sex educators

As event producers and promoters, what do you look for in your presenters? Organizing a sex positive event can be an exciting and fulfilling experience, but it is also a huge responsibility. One of the most important aspects of any event is the selection of presenters.

Vetting presenters who are knowledgeable, qualified, and professional is crucial to ensuring a safe and inclusive event. It is also essential to prioritize ethics and consent awareness when selecting presenters.

Consent Awareness

Consent is a fundamental aspect of any sex positive event. It is important to ensure that presenters are aware of and prioritize consent in their presentations. This means understanding the importance of

affirmative and ongoing consent,
respecting boundaries, and
avoiding any language or behavior that is coercive or non-consensual.

Look for presenters who are knowledgeable about consent and can demonstrate their commitment to creating a safe and respectful environment for all attendees.

Power Dynamics of a Sex Educator

It is important to consider the power dynamic between presenters and the audience. Presenters hold a certain level of authority and influence over attendees, and it is important to ensure that this power dynamic is not exploited or abused. Look for presenters who can create a safe and respectful environment where attendees

feel empowered to ask questions,
share their experiences, and
set their own boundaries.

Presenters should also recognize and address any power imbalances that may arise, and ensure that all attendees feel valued and respected.

Presenter Ethics

Ethics refer to the principles of right and wrong that guide professional conduct. When vetting presenters for a sex positive event, it is important to consider their ethical standards. For example,

Are they committed to providing accurate and non-judgmental information?
Do they prioritize the safety and well-being of attendees?
Do their ethical standards align with you and your organization?

Look for presenters who uphold ethical principles such as respect, non-discrimination, and informed consent. It is also essential to have a clear ethics code for your event and communicate it to presenters beforehand.

Qualifications to look for in sex educators

When vetting sex educators, it is important to look for individuals with relevant certifications and/or degrees. For example, a sex therapist with a master’s degree in psychology or counseling, or a certified sex educator from a reputable organization, such as

would be excellent candidates. Look for presenters with verifiable credentials and who can demonstrate a strong knowledge base in their field.

Another key consideration when vetting presenters for your event is their level of experience. Look for individuals with a proven track record of delivering high-quality presentations, workshops, or seminars. Consider their experience with different audiences, such as youth, adults, or LGBTQ+ communities. Ask for references and review their online presence, such as their website, social media profiles, and reviews from previous events. Look for presenters who have a reputation for being engaging, knowledgeable, and professional.

Presentation Content

Carefully review the content that presenters will discuss at your event. Ensure the topics are relevant to your audience and align with the event's goals. Consider whether the content is appropriate for all attendees, including those who may have experienced trauma or have different levels of knowledge and experience. Look for presenters who can communicate complex or sensitive information in a clear and respectful way. Additionally, ensure the content is evidence-based and grounded in current research.

Sex Educator Vetting should be required

A sex educator vetting process for a sex positive event is crucial in the event planning process. As event producers or promoters, it is essential to provide comprehensive training and support for presenters. This can include your own workshops or resources on trauma-informed care, ethics, and consent awareness as it pertains to your specific event. Create an open and supportive dialogue between organizers and presenters, allowing ongoing feedback and communication throughout the planning process and the event.

By carefully selecting presenters who align with your event's values, you can create a successful and meaningful sex positive event. Remember, the presenters you select will have a significant impact on the success of your events, so take the time to do your research and choose wisely.

Take Action!

Marilu is the administrator for the Safer Play Spaces Program by safersex.com. Contact Marilu at marilu@safersex.com to assist in vetting sex educators at your next event.

Marilu is a certified member of the American Board of Sexologists. Click here to learn more.