Consent is Sexy

Because 80 percent of sexual assault victims are under the age of 30, STSM's "Consent is Sexy" campaign aims to educate young adults about sexual violence and what consent looks like, to alter social norms in regard to consent, and to reduce the incidences of sexual violence among college-age individuals.

What is consent? Consent is when both parties agree to have sex. It’s not just allowing something or giving permission—it’s knowing that you both really want each other. It must be talked about and agreed upon; if you want to move to the next level of intimacy, just ask! And remember:

· Consent should never be coerced, implied or assumed, even if you're in a relationship. Just because you are in a relationship doesn't mean that you always have consent to have sex with your partner.

· Consent cannot legally be given by someone who is intoxicated. Someone may be responsible for being drunk or high, but they are never responsible for being assaulted.

· Touching someone's breasts, genitals or buttocks without consent is sexual assault, and so is making someone touch you. Any form of sexual activity with another person without his or her consent is sexual assault.

· If you don’t ask for consent, you are at risk of doing something the other person doesn't want you to do, which will disrespect or hurt them. You are also at risk of breaking the law and facing criminal charges.

Why is consent sexy? Honesty, communication, and respect make sex and relationships healthier and sexier. By asking for consent, you are showing that you respect your partner and yourself. You also eliminate the entitlement that one partner feels over the other - your body and sexuality belong only to you. Having positive views about sex and sexuality is empowering.

How can you make consent sexy? Be creative and spontaneous! Show your partner that you respect him or her by talking about your sexual desires. It may be awkward at first, but don’t give up. The more you talk about it, the more comfortable you’ll be communicating about sex in the future, and you will become more secure in your relationship and your sexuality.

We hope that this campaign will encourage you to question traditional ideas of gender and sexuality and spark conversation on having healthier, sexier, consensual sex. Before you act, ask first!

Stay tuned about ways you can get involved with this campaign throughout the year and during Sexual Assault Awareness Month as well!

I ask first, do you?

CONSENT IS SEXY!