Consent is key
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CONSENT IS KEY – ALWAYS ASK FOR CONSENT.
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Consent means that only «yes» really is a Yes. We ask people – at a first getting to know each other, a touch or a kiss. We accept a No and respect the boundaries of the other one. We are aware that a No or a rejection may also be expressed non-verbally. If, for example, the other one turns away or crosses its arms it doesn’t mean yes. Also «maybe» or «I don’t know» is not a Yes. A «yes» given under the influence is not a Yes. It needs an active confirmation from all persons involved.
- ONLY YES MEANS YES
We deal with our own boundaries. Do we feel uncomfortable, hassled or harassed? Are we able to point this out to the other person or do we need support from others?
To ask for consensus or to actively give it may seem strange. Too often we draw conclusions from ourselves about others or guess what the other person wants and does not want. The more we are aware of this in every day life the easier it will get to ask for consensus.