Peer-led programs like SafeBAE’s are changing the conversation—be part of the movement.

SafeBAE in the New York Times: Amplifying Youth Voices

SafeBAE has been fortunate to receive recognition from the New York Times before, but every feature carries a deeper meaning. It’s not just about being seen—it’s about the stories we’re able to tell, the voices we’re able to amplify, and the youth whose experiences drive our mission forward.

In a recent opinion piece, the Times highlighted our peer-led approach to consent education, emphasizing how SafeBAE empowers teens to deliver life-changing messages to their peers. This feature reinforces the urgent need for comprehensive consent education and the critical role SafeBAE plays in shaping how young people navigate relationships and boundaries.

In this article, we’ll explore what the Times piece revealed about the state of sex education today, why peer-led programs like SafeBAE’s are essential, and how you can help bring these vital resources to your own community.

The Power of Peer-Led Consent Education

As highlighted in the New York Times article, SafeBAE stands out by prioritizing a peer-led approach to teaching consent and healthy relationship skills. Research and lived experience show that teens are far more likely to absorb messages about consent and boundaries when they come from peers who speak their language, understand their experiences, and approach these topics with authenticity.

The Times recognized how SafeBAE’s model empowers students to advocate for change in their own schools and communities. Programs like ours not only help students understand what consent truly means but also give them the confidence to recognize and call out harmful behaviors.

For example, SafeBAE’s comprehensive resources go beyond traditional health class discussions, integrating consent education into broader contexts like literature and history, as the Times highlighted. This holistic approach ensures that conversations about boundaries and respect don’t feel siloed—they become a natural part of students’ everyday lives.

Highlighting the Critical Need for SafeBAE’s Work

The New York Times feature is more than just a moment of recognition—it’s a powerful reminder of how desperately resources like SafeBAE’s are needed in schools across the country. As the article points out, many students are still learning about consent and relationships from outdated or inadequate systems, often led by educators who lack the training or comfort to effectively address these topics.

That’s why SafeBAE’s work is so critical. By empowering students with peer-led education, we’re filling a gap that traditional systems can’t. Articles like this bring national attention to the importance of what we do and help amplify our mission to make every school a safe and informed environment for young people.

We’re deeply grateful to Hillary Frank for including us in this conversation and for using her platform to spotlight the need for meaningful, inclusive sex education. It’s through features like hers that we can continue reaching new communities and making a difference.

Your support allows us to expand our reach, create new programs, and bring our resources to more schools and communities. Donate today to help us continue this vital work. Learn more or make a contribution here. Together, we can create a safer future for all youth.