Sue Johanson, a well-known Canadian nurse, and broadcaster, made a lasting impression on the field of sex education with her frank and engaging approach.
Regrettably, the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation revealed on Thursday that this renowned sex educator died at 93.
According to the CBC, Sue Johanson passed away in a long-term care facility outside of Toronto with her devoted family by her side.
This registered nurse dedicated her professional career to promoting safe sex practices and reducing the stigma associated with sex discussions.
Her forthright and nonjudgmental attitude garnered her enormous respect, elevating her to a position of authority in Canada and several other countries.
Johanson rose to notoriety in 1984 when she took over as host of the popular call-in radio show Sunday Night Sex Show.
This program eventually made its way to television, and in 2002, it gave birth to its famous American counterpart, Talk Sex With Sue Johanson.
Before her media career, Johanson founded the Don Mills Birth Control Clinic in 1970 after working as a nurse for many years. She worked as the clinic coordinator for an incredible 16 years, serving many people.
Johanson also wrote three books about sexuality, and her speaking engagements in Canadian schools allowed her to interact with and educate thousands of teenagers and young people.
Her unfettered attitude toward discussing sex, pleasure, and sexuality, combined with her sharp humor and professional skill, helped boost her appeal tremendously.
Despite receiving angry phone calls and letters, Johanson dared to discuss taboo topics such as sex toys and masturbation.
In acknowledgment of her commitment to promoting sex education, she was awarded the coveted Order of Canada in 2000, the country’s second-highest civilian honor.
Johanson was lauded for her honesty and nonjudgmental listening in the formal announcement of her prize. Lisa Rideout, the Canadian director of the 2022 film Sex with Sue, spoke on Johanson’s legacy, emphasizing her positive impact on millions of people worldwide.
She referred to Sue as a Canadian national treasure, claiming that her influence would continue to create positive change for years.
Jane Johanson, one of Sue’s three children, echoed the same thoughts, expressing her admiration for her mother and her significant influence.
Jane Johanson told CBC News Network, “My mother was wonderful.” Anyone, at any time, everywhere, could recognize her voice.
She always treated everyone with dignity and never rejected anyone. Her comments to any question were free of bias or condescending.”
“I believe everyone felt a deep connection with Sue as if she were a second mother or grandmother to them.”
Sue Johanson’s death leaves a vacuum in the field of sex education. Still, her legacy of knowledge, compassion, and open-mindedness will continue, ensuring that her influence will positively alter countless people’s lives.
