Mary Calderone

Mary Calderone is often considered the mother of sex education in the United States. She was a physician, author, and public health advocate.

After working as a school physician in New York, she became the first medical director of Planned Parenthood, serving from 1953 to 1964. It was during this time that the first birth control pill was approved in the US. Mary lobbied the American Public Health Association and the American Medical Association to endorse contraception as part of standard medical practice.

After her time with Planned Parenthood, Mary cofounded the Sexuality Information and Education Council of the United States (SIECUS). SIECUS's goal was to promote research, discussion, and education on human sexuality. Mary advocated for the inclusion of responsible sex education in the public school curriculum.

As sexuality education's most visible ambassador, Mary became the target of virulent attacks from right-wing politicians and religious conservative groups. Despite this opposition, her public persona radiated a fierce commitment to people’s right to experience sexual pleasure at any age.

Mary played a major role in recasting contraception and, especially, sexuality education as essential to human health and well-being. Her efforts to provide people with the knowledge and confidence to enjoy healthy sex lives were revolutionary. The debate she began in the 1950s paved the way for vital discussions about sexually transmitted infections, AIDS, and unwanted pregnancy.