Elise Ottesen-Jensen

Elise Ottesen-Jensen

Elise Ottesen-Jensen (1886–1973), often referred to by her nickname Ottar, was a prominent Norwegian-Swedish sex educator, journalist, and anarchist. She is best known for her tireless efforts in promoting sexual education, birth control, and women's rights. Ottesen-Jensen's work had a significant impact on public health and women's liberation movements in Scandinavia and beyond.

Early Life

Elise Ottesen-Jensen was born on January 2, 1886, in Høyland, Norway. Growing up in a conservative society, she faced numerous challenges that shaped her future activism. From an early age, Ottesen-Jensen was exposed to the hardships faced by women, particularly in terms of reproductive rights and sexual freedom.

Activism

In the early 20th century, Ottesen-Jensen became actively involved in the labor movement and anarchism, which further influenced her advocacy for social justice. Her commitment to feminism and socialism led her to focus on issues related to sexuality, contraception, and abortion rights.

In 1933, amidst a backdrop of political and social conservatism, Ottesen-Jensen founded the Swedish Association for Sexuality Education (RFSU), an organization dedicated to advancing sexual education and reproductive rights. Through RFSU, she worked tirelessly to challenge societal norms, advocating for the right to abortion, contraception, and sexual education for all.

Legacy

Elise Ottesen-Jensen's contributions to sexual education and women's rights have left an indelible mark on Scandinavian society and beyond. Her pioneering work paved the way for more open discussions about sexuality and reproductive health, contributing to significant changes in laws and attitudes towards women's health and gender equality.

Her legacy continues through the work of RFSU and similar organizations worldwide, which carry on her mission of promoting sexual education and reproductive rights. Ottesen-Jensen's life and work remain a powerful example of how individual activism can lead to profound social change.

Death

Elise Ottesen-Jensen passed away on September 4, 1973, in Stockholm, Sweden. Her death marked the end of a remarkable life dedicated to fighting for equality, freedom, and the rights of women and men to have control over their own bodies and sexuality.