Dr. Ruth Westheimer, a pioneer in the field of sex therapy and a beloved media figure, passed away on Friday at the age of 96, marking the end of an era in sexual literacy advocacy. The Washington Times reported that her life's work transformed the way society discusses and understands human sexuality.
Born in Frankfurt, Germany, in 1928, Ruth Westheimer fled to Switzerland in 1938 to escape Nazi persecution. Her journey of survival also took her to Palestine, where she joined the Haganah, an underground Jewish military organization, at the age of 16.
Westheimer later moved to the United States, where she pursued her higher education.
She received a doctorate in education from Columbia University and began her career focusing on human sexuality.
Known for her frank and open discourse on sex, Dr. Ruth never shied away from discussing what many considered taboo subjects at the time. She played a crucial role in promoting sexual health and safe sexual practices, particularly during the height of the AIDS epidemic.
Her media presence expanded as she authored over 40 books on sexual health, starting with "Dr. Ruth’s Guide to Good Sex" released in 1983. She became a staple on many late-night talk shows, where she used her platform to normalize conversations about sex.
Dr. Ruth specifically advocated for the use of condoms and supported abortion rights, making her a significant figure in the sexual revolution.
Westheimer's emphasis on sexual health became especially important during the AIDS crisis in the 1980s. She was an early advocate for safe sex practices, helping to destigmatize conversations around sexual health issues.
In addition to her media work, Dr. Ruth served as a professor at Lehman College, where she taught courses that covered the broad spectrum of human sexuality. Her academic and professional work deeply influenced how sex education is approached in the United States.
Dr. Ruth also received multiple accolades for her contributions, including an honorary doctorate and the Ellis Island Medal of Honor, which commends individuals for their contributions to America and the world.
Reflecting on her values, Dr. Ruth once stated: “I still hold old-fashioned values and I’m a bit of a square. Sex is a private art and a private matter. But still, it is a subject we must talk about.” Her openness and direct approach helped many feel more comfortable discussing sexual issues.
Ryan White, director of the documentary "Ask Dr. Ruth," noted her lifelong advocacy for gay rights and family planning. He highlighted her consistent acceptance and respect for gay people, a stance that was formidable given the eras she lived through.
Her memorable appearance on a talk show hosted by Johnny Carson in 1988 left an indelible mark when she expressed, “If we could bring about talking about sexual activity the way we talk about diet, then we would be a step further. But we have to do it with good taste,” further emphasizing her approach to sexual discourse.
Dr. Ruth Westheimer is survived by her two children, Joel and Miriam, and four grandchildren. Her family was by her side when she passed away at her home in New York City.
Her third husband, Manfred Westheimer, whom she had shared many years of life with, passed away in 1997. Her personal life, as much as her professional one, was marked by her resilience and willingness to embrace challenges.
Westheimer’s work has left a lasting imprint not only on the field of sex therapy but also on the cultural landscape, changing how people discuss and view sexual health globally.
Throughout her life, Dr. Ruth Westheimer was a beacon of knowledge and progression in a field that many found difficult to address publicly. Her legacy will live on through her extensive publication record, memorable media appearances, and the countless lives she educated and influenced with her wisdom.
As society continues to evolve in its understanding and openness towards human sexuality, Dr. Ruth’s pioneering work remains a cornerstone of enlightened sexual discourse. Her voice, once a solitary one in the field, now echoes through the generations she inspired.
Dr. Ruth's departure is not just the loss of a great educator and media personality, but the end of a chapter in the ongoing story of sexual education—a chapter she wrote with intelligence, humor, and unyielding courage.
