Let's talk about Consent.

Consent entails a person’s willing approval, achieved when they possess the mental capacity to understand and make a reasoned decision regarding an offer or proposal put forth by another individual (Gender-based violence definitions, n.d.) It is a decision given freely, and without any sort of force or coercion to the other party. Consent is given through a clear verbal affirmation, and a positive expression, gesture, or body language.

A. Table of Expressions of consent

Words / Phrases that Express Consent *

• “Yes.”
• “I agree.”
• “Sure.”
• “It’s okay for me.”
• “I/We can do it.”
• “I’d like/love to.”

B. Table of Words / Phrases / Situations that Do Not Show Consent

Words / Phrases / Situations that Do Not Show Consent *

• “No.”
• “Maybe / I’m not sure.”
• “I’m not interested.”
• “I don’t like/want to.”
• “I am not/don’t feel comfortable.”
• “Stop.”
• “I don’t think this is right.“
• The person being asked for consent is: asleep, sick, intoxicated by alcohol or drugs, etc.
• Intimidating or persuading someone (of legal age,  or under the legal age, or mentally incapacitated individuals)
• Deciding on your own or assuming the other party would agree.
• Visibly uncomfortable or disengaged with the act.
• A person who has initially given consent but changed their mind along the course of the act is an indication of a refusal to push through.