Consent

Consent is the voluntary, affirmative, and freely-given agreement, through words and/ or actions in reference to sexual and non-sexual physical touch.

Consent Looks Like:

• Confirming that there is reciprocal interest before initiating any physical touch.
• Letting your partner know that you can stop at any time.
• Periodically checking in with your partner, such as asking “Is this still okay?” And receiving clear confirmation that your partner wants to continue.
• Providing positive feedback when you’re comfortable with an activity.
• Explicitly agreeing to certain activities, either by saying “yes” or another affirmative statement, like “I’m comfortable with that.”
• Using physical cues to let the other person know you’re comfortable.

Reduce Your Risk of Committing Sexual Misconduct:

• Always clearly communicate your intentions AND give others a chance to clearly communicate their intentions to you.
• If they say “no” or give any other verbal or non-verbal indication that they do not want physical contact. Stop Immediately.
• Respect personal boundaries. If the person says they are uncomfortable with your actions, stop what you are doing and respect their decision.
• Mixed messages, silence, or stillness, are a clear indication that you should stop your actions.
• Avoid ambiguity. Just ask. Do not make assumptions about consent, about whether someone is attracted to you, or how far you can go with that person. If you have questions or are unclear, you do not have consent.