As Valentine’s Day
approaches, couples are preparing to show each other how much each one cares
for one another. They buy gifts, flowers, and set up their ideal
date night!
However, there is one more way to show you care that is often
overlooked: Consent. Consent
is the agreement made between individuals to engage in sexual activity.
Before
being intimate, it is important to communicate with each other, establish
boundaries and get verbal consent (i.e. “Yes” or “I am okay with that”) for
sexual activities. In the heat of the moment, remember to ask questions along
the way like “Are you comfortable” or “Is this okay?”
It is important to remember:
1.
A person under the influence of drugs or alcohol
CANNOT give consent.
2.
You don’t owe your partner sex!
3.
Even if you have received consent once to engage
in an activity, you should ask again the next. Your partner may not have felt
comfortable or they just do not feeling like doing it.
4.
Pressuring someone to say “Yes” to sex does not
count as consent.
5.
Kissing or flirting is not a sign of consent.
6.
Consent is
just as important in marriage as it is when dating.
Come learn more on how to make your relationship even more Healthy, Happy and Intimate on Wednesday, February 15 from 11am-12pm in Room 025 (Den 2) of the Student Center.
By: Esteban Moreno
