What is Consent?

Consent is all about respect and communication! It means making sure everyone involved actively agrees to what’s happening, especially when it comes to sexual activity. Consent is a clear, enthusiastic “yes” from everyone involved, not just silence or assuming it’s okay. It’s about checking in, respecting boundaries, and making sure everyone feels safe and comfortable. And the best part? You can ask for consent in fun, respectful ways!

How do I know if I have consent?

It’s easy—just ask! Here are some ways to check-in:

  • “Are you okay with this?”
  • “Do you want to keep going?”
  • “How are you feeling about this?”

Keep it simple, keep it fun, and keep it respectful.

Consent is clear communication. No guessing. No assumptions. Just an honest, ongoing conversation.

So what do I need to know?

Here’s what you need to know:

  • Consent is ongoing: It’s not a “one-time thing.” If you want to take things to the next level, always ask! Check-in with your partner(s) and make sure they're still into it. If at any point someone says "no" or seems unsure, respect that and stop.
  • Silence isn’t consent: Just because someone doesn’t say "no," doesn’t mean they’re saying "yes." Consent is always a clear and enthusiastic "yes." If you're unsure, just ask!
  • Consent can’t happen if someone’s too drunk or high: If someone is intoxicated, they can’t fully make decisions about what’s happening. It’s really important that everyone’s in a clear state of mind when giving or receiving consent.
  • No pressure, no force: If someone is pressured, threatened, or feels unsafe, that’s not real consent. Everyone should feel free to say "yes" or "no" without fear of any consequences.
  • Power dynamics matter: If someone is in a position of power—like a boss or professor—it can affect whether the other person feels like they can truly say no. That’s not fair, and that’s not consent.
  • Everyone deserves to be heard: People with disabilities, whether verbal, physical, or cognitive, should be given space and support to communicate their consent. Consent might look different in different situations, and that’s okay—what’s important is making sure everyone is fully on board.