Consent

What is Consent?

Consent means agreeing or giving permission to engage in a specific behavior/activity. Consent must be: an active process, a choice, and based in equal power. Consent should be curious, interested, or enthusiastic.

What is Affirmative Consent?

This new law defines affirmative consent as “an active, clear and voluntary agreement by a person to engage in sexual activity with another person” and requires Connecticut’s institutions of higher education to use this standard to determine whether or not a sexual activity was consensual in the context of their disciplinary procedures. Affirmative consent is a perspective that “yes means yes” rather than “the absence of no means yes.” Affirmative consent may never be assumed because there is no physical resistance or other negative response.

Consent is a mutual & conscious decision
Consent can be revoked at any time during sexual activity by any person engaged in the activity
Consent is required with each escalation and engagement of sexual activity (ie: just because someone consented to kissing or touching does not mean they have consented to sex)

Individuals are incapable of giving consent when:

They are unconscious or asleep
They are incapacitated due to the influence of alcohol or other drugs

What Does Consent Look, Sound & Feel Like?

Consent may be given through words, actions, and gestures. Verbal and NON-VERBAL modes of communication, including fine nuances such as tone of voice, facial expression, and body language are important to pay attention to. When in doubt, communicate – never assume what someone wants or doesn’t want in the moment. And remember, consent is not like a contract – it involves ongoing communication and collaboration.

Examples of Statements that say “NO”:

“I’m confused”
“I’m not sure”
“I guess if you want to…”
“Let’s slow down”
“I don’t want to get pregnant”
“Maybe”

Examples of Actions that say “NO”

Looking down
Moving away
Cringing
Pushing away
Looking upset
Avoiding being alone
Not moving/responding/reciprocating

If you’re unsure about an experience you had, we’re here to help you process it.