:
Consent
A Changing Conversation
YES
Consent is:
The #metoo movement has swept our nation and
has been in the news daily. Consequently, the way
we talk about consent is changing. Today, students,
parents, faculty, friends—both men and women—
should be talking about consent!
k NO w the Law
It’s important to understand that sexual assault can include more
than instances of outright forced sex. It’s particularly important
to note that in Alabama:
• A person under the age of 16 cannot legally give consent. If
you are 18 or older and your girlfriend or boyfriend is under
the age of 16, you can be legally charged with a crime even if
you both agree to have sex.
• A person is unable to consent to sexual activity when they
are impaired by alcohol or other substances. If you have sex
with someone who you know is impaired by alcohol or drugs
(legal or illegal), even if they do not physically resist, you may
be charged with a crime.
• A person feels pressured to have sex under the implied threat
of force is legally a victim of sexual assault. If your partner is
afraid, even if you do not actually intend to do them harm, you
may be charged with a crime.
Ala Code §13A-6-60(6).
• Voluntary
• Asking
• Sober
• Enthusiastic
• Verbal
• Non-coerced
• Conscious
• Necessary
NO
Lack of Consent is:
• RAPE!
1 in 4
college women
experience rape
or attempted
rape.
While these aren’t fail-proof, here are
some things you can do to help protect
yourself from sexual assault:
• Be extra careful about meeting people online.
• Talk to your parents or guardians.
• Know your limits and communicate them.
• Avoid drugs and alcohol.
• Go out, don’t hang out in dorms or apartments.
• Date in groups.
• Use the word NO. There is no substitute. You always have the
right to say NO to things you do not want to do!
For Help and Assistance:
National Sexual Assault Telephone Hotline: 1-800-656-4673
Date Rape Drugs- OWH Helpline: 800-994-9662
FOCUS: 256-453-0655 | www.thefocusprogram.com
The Bottom Line?
Consent is MANDATORY for everyone's protection
It may not sound particularly romantic, but it’s critical to ask
permission before making a move and be willing to accept if
your partner says “no”; they shouldn’t have to say it twice. By
respecting your date’s wishes and communicating clearly and
openly, you can ensure that you are not unintentionally causing
harm, and you’re protecting yourself legally.
ROOFIES
Sue Jones, M.Ed., graduated from the University of North Alabama
and Jacksonville State University. She is Co-Founder and Executive
Director of FOCUS. Sue has worked with schools in all 67 counties
implementing and promoting FOCUS. Contact her at
[email protected] and visit www.thefocusprogram.com
for more information on FOCUS.
Date rape drugs are sometimes used to assist a sexual assault. Roofies often have no color, smell, or taste, so
you can’t tell if you are being drugged. The drugs can make you weak and confused - or even cause you to
pass out completely. To protect yourself, never accept or share a drink with someone else or leave your drink
unattended. Open your drink yourself and never drink from a common open container such as a punch
bowl. Always order a drink yourself or watch the drink as it is being poured.
www.potentialmagazine.com
Spring 2018 |
35