Action Canada for Sexual Health and Rights Executive Director Sandeep Prasad announced today that he is stepping down from his role with the organization.
“This was a challenging decision as leading Action Canada has been such an honour and pleasure,” said Prasad. “Knowing the organization is well positioned moving into the future has made it possible for me to look at next steps in my career.”
Prasad became the Executive Director following the 2014 merger of Action Canada for Population and Development, Canadians for Choice (formerly CARAL), and the Canadian Federation for Sexual Health (formerly Planned Parenthood Federation of Canada). The amalgamation to form Action Canada for Sexual Health and Rights blended their unique expertise on frontline sexual health services and sexual and reproductive rights policy.
Action Canada works to advance progressive policies on access to abortion, stigma-free healthcare, gender equality, LGBTQI2S+ rights, and inclusive sex-ed, while also providing direct support, referrals, and information to people across Canada. Action Canada celebrated its five-year anniversary last year and recently launched a new five-year strategic plan.
“Action Canada is where it is today as a result of Sandeep’s leadership. He has grown and shaped the organization, and for this we are grateful,” said Cathy Steven, Board Chair of Action Canada.
“In five years, Action Canada has grown from a small organization with a handful of staff to a staff of over 20 with a strong presence nationally and internationally. We’ve taken enormous steps forward as an organization – and seen progress on sexual and reproductive health and rights here in Canada and around the world,” said Prasad.
“The commitment and passion of our staff, board, and volunteers have made it possible. While we face some unprecedented challenges as a global community, I am confident Action Canada will continue to be a leader on sexual and reproductive rights, including comprehensive sexuality education, access to contraception and abortion, and feminist international assistance. With the rising tide of anti-choice momentum and a growing need for accurate sexual health information, Action Canada’s strong national voice is needed.”
Prasad plans to remain until the end of June 2020, during which time Action Canada will engage in a recruitment process. Frédérique Chabot, Action Canada’s Director of Health Promotion, will be Acting Executive Director until the recruitment process is complete.
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For media inquires, contact:
Laura Neidhart
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