Listicle

Let's Talk Consent

Sexual consent goes beyond a simple "yes" or "no." It means agreeing to a sexual activity before it happens and checking in along the way to ensure everyone involved feels comfortable and respected.

Consent is...

(V)oluntary

Remember: Your body, your rules. You should never feel pressured to give consent. You should feel free to give or not give consent—even if you are in a relationship. If someone is in a position of power over you, that can also get in the way of your ability to give consent. 

In an interview, a woman responds, "I don't want to!"

(O)ngoing Communication 

Consent isn't a one-time thing; it's an ongoing conversation. It's perfectly okay to change your mind or set new boundaries at any point. Effective communication is key to ensuring that everyone's needs and boundaries are respected. 

In an interview, a man says, "It's like just communicate it. Simple"

(I)nformed

To give meaningful consent, you need to have all the relevant information about the sexual activity and its potential consequences. It's important to be honest and transparent and make sure that everyone involved understands and agrees to what's happening. 

A clip from the show Friends includes Phoebe saying, "That is brand new information!"

 

(C)oherent 

Consent requires clear thinking and full awareness of the situation. Drugs and alcohol can negatively impact judgment and decision-making. This means that someone who is drunk or high cannot give consent, even if they say yes. Stay sober when engaging in sexual activity, and don’t do anything sexual with someone who is using alcohol or drugs. 

A picture of a red solo cup with a cancel symbol over it

 

(E)ssential

Consent is not negotiable; it's a fundamental aspect of every sexual encounter. Without consent, any sexual activity is considered sexual assault, which is a serious crime. Always seek clear consent before engaging in any sexual behavior. 

Consent is my favorite bare minimum.

Consent is vital for healthy and respectful relationships. You have a right to refuse or give consent, so remember to use your V.O.I.C.E! 

     Voluntary

     Ongoing

     Informed

     Coherent 

     Essential

Always remember, it's NEVER your fault if you experience sexual assault. Reach out to a trusted adult or contact support hotlines for help and guidance. 

Did you know?  

Each state has its own age of consent law, which sets the minimum age before someone is legally capable of consenting to sex. These laws are designed to prevent adults from taking advantage of minors (people under the age of 18). However, some states have laws that make it illegal for two minors to have sex if one or both are under the age of consent. Therefore, it is important to know the age of consent laws in your state.  

Resources

  • Rape Abuse and Incest National Network (RAINN): National Sexual Assault Hotline
    • If you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted, call 800-656-4673 (800-656-HOPE) or use the online chat hotline in English or Spanish for confidential 24/7 support.
  • RALIANCE: Rape Crisis Centers
    • Directory of local rape crisis and sexual assault organizations in all 50 states, the District of Columbia and 4 U.S. Territories, that provide free and low-cost support, including counseling and legal assistance.
  • National Domestic Violence Hotline: love is respect
    • Call 866-331-9474, text “LOVEIS” to 22522, or use TTY: 800-787-3224 to access 24/7 support if you or someone you know may be experiencing or is at risk for dating abuse.