“She was asking for it because of what she was wearing”…Is Not Consent
4 years agoSat, 30 Nov 2019 02:30:45 GMT
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As the world commemorates the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, a UN Women article focuses on the issue of consensual and unwanted sex stresses. It emphasises that there are no blurred lines when it comes to consent.
Lines like “They didn’t say no”…, “We were drunk”…, “She was asking for it because of what she was wearing”… or, “You need to be more assertive.” cannot be used to justify having unwanted sex with someone.
The article clarifies the meaning of consent:
- Enthusiastic – Consent comes from a place of enthusiasm. Rather than looking for a “no,” make sure there’s an active “yes.” If a partner agrees but appears worried or unsure, she’s not consenting.
- Given freely – A “yes” is supposed to be given without pressure. A partner is not consenting if she does so while drunk.
- Informed – A partner should have all the facts. For example, if a partner says they will use protection during sex, but they do not, that is not consensual sex.
- Specific – Consenting to one thing does not mean consenting to another. A partner can consent to kissing or touching one day and not the next.
- Reversible – Consent can be revoked. Once can change your mind at any time. And consent is important even among couples who have had sex before.
More: UnWomen.org