WHY CONSENT IS IMPORTANT?
Before highlighting why consent is important, it is important to know what is consent?
Many people still struggle to understand it. When people are sexually together, they have to agree with what's happening. This is called giving consent. It can be defined as an agreement to do something which involves both the partners together and with their permission.
So how do I know if it’s Consensual Sex?
During the sexual activity if everyone present, must agree willingly to everything that’s happening as you go. It’s important to remember things like silence or a nod are not enough to establish consent.
It is not consensual if a person:
Says out loud or indicates with their body language, “no”
Changes their mind from a “yes” to a “no” with their words/actions
Says “yes” to one thing but “no” to another
Is impaired by alcohol or drugs
Is unconscious or sleeping
Is intimidated, pressured, threatened, or coerced
Is under the age of 16 or does not fit the “close in age” rule
Is in a position of trust or authority (e.g. a teacher, coach, employer, etc.) with a young person under the age of 18
Seems unsure (e.g. looks nervous, pulls away, etc.)
Keep in mind that:
Saying “yes” to one thing doesn’t imply “yes” to something else
If you move on to something else, each person needs to consent again
Pressuring someone to change their mind is not consent
Now, we come on Why is consent so important?
Without consent, sexual activity is Sexual Violence. Sexual violence can be:
- Sexual Assault is any unwanted sexual act that can be done by one person to another.
- Sexual Harassment is any unwanted physical or verbal conduct of a sexual nature.
How do I know if it’s sexual violence?
If a person doesn’t ask and obtain clear permission before you attempt to have sex
If a person takes a picture of a classmate who passed out with their shirt lifted up
If your coach insists you give them a massage after the other players leave the locker room
If your partner tells you to touch them or they’ll break up with you
No one has the right to touch you without your permission. If you’ve been impacted by sexual violence, there are people and places available to support you.
Comments
Post a Comment