Consent: F.R.I.E.S

Consent is a very important part of relationships and everyone deserves to have safe and consensual relationships. Consent is a person’s want or willingness to engage in sexual contact with another person, including touching, kissing, or intercourse. It’s important to know that consent must be ongoing. This means you can withdraw consent or change your mind at ANY TIME. In order to understand consent, this article will use the acronym F.R.I.E.S!

This means that neither partner feels pressured or coerced. This also means that neither partner is under the influence of drugs or alcohol and can express their consent clearly.

This means either person can change their mind or withdraw their consent at any time. This includes if they have previously given consent, promised to engage in an activity, or engaged in the past.

This means each person clearly understands what they are and are not consenting to. Like previously stated, both parties must also be sober and not impacted by drugs or alcohol. It’s also important to clearly communicate all relevant sexual health information so a partner can make an informed decision.

This means both partners are excited and enthusiastic to engage in sexual contact. Each person expresses excitement and voluntary engagement.

This means both parties know exactly what each wants and doesn’t want. Each person should know what the consent is for (ex. Kissing, cuddling, holding hands, intercourse, etc), and the details of who and what will be involved (ex. Are you going to use condoms? and Where will it take place?)

As a reminder consent is necessary and a right of everyone regardless of the situation. Consent is needed whether it is a new partner or a long-term relationship and even if you have previously had a child with the person. If you have experienced coercion, non-consensual sexual contact, or any other form of sexual violence please seek help. If you are in immediate danger, call 911.