Before engaging in any sexual activity all parties have to consent, be it a one-night stand, a romantic relationship or even marriage. If sexual activity is a house, consent is the foundation, and you cannot build a house without the foundation.
TW: This article refers to rape and sexual assault.
Defining Sexual Consent
Sexual Consent is an agreement to participate in a sexual activity. Before being sexual with someone, you need to know if they want to be sexual with you too. It sounds simple right? But not a lot of people (read as hetro men) actually get it. It is also important to be honest with your partner about what you want and do not want.
Consenting and asking for consent are linked to your personal boundaries and whether you respect your partner’s personal boundaries. All parties involved need to agree to engage in sexual activities– every single time – for it to be consensual. Sexual activity without consent is either sexual assault or rape, period.
Four Important Facts about Sexual Consent
1. Sexual consent must be explicit
Never assume the other person is enjoying the sexual activities as much as you are, always ask.
2. Sexual consent is reversible
Consent is not a done deal, you can change your mind at any time for any reason. If consent is withdrawn, the sexual activities should stop.
3. Drugs and alcohol affect consent
Being too drunk or too high can affect your ability to consent and it is suggested that a really drunk/high individual can not give consent. Rather wait until the person has sobered up before you engage in sexual activities.
4. Sexual consent is specific
Consenting to one sexual activity such as. kissing does not mean you are consenting to other sexual activities such as sexual penetration.
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