Consent

How Do You Know You Have Consent?

Consent requires knowing, voluntary and clear permission by word or action, to engage in mutually agreed upon sexual activity. Each party has the responsibility to make certain that the other has consented before engaging in the activity. For consent to be valid, there must be, at the time of the act of sexual intercourse or sexual contact, actual words or conduct indicating freely given agreement to have sexual intercourse or sexual contact. A person cannot consent if he or she is unable to understand what is happening or is disoriented, helpless, asleep or unconscious for any reason, including due to alcohol or other drugs. An individual who engages in sexual activity when the individual knows, or should know, that the other person is physically or mentally incapacitated has engaged in nonconsensual conduct. Intoxication is not a defense against allegations that an individual has engaged in nonconsensual sexual conduct.  Sex without consent is sexual assault.

Consent Is:

  • clear affirmation (words, actions) that create mutually understandable permission
  • voluntary
  • given for each sexual act during an encounter and for each encounter

Consent Is Not:

  • silent
  • passive
  • a lack of resistance
  • given while unconscious or incapacitated
  • transferable — you need consent every time

 

Why Sexual Consent Is Just Like Offering Someone A Cup Of Tea

An interesting breakdown on what it really means to have consent.


What is Consent from Campus Clarity


Contact Title IX Coordinator

The Title IX /EEO Coordinator or Deputy Coordinator can address faculty, staff and student concerns related to sexual harassment, sexual assault and other actions that fall within the college' obligations under Title IX. In addition, contact any Taskforce Member.

Title IX / EEO Coordinator, Vice President of Foundation, HR & Legal Affairs

  Kendra Sprague
  Administration Building Room 115
  (360) 442-2121
  title9@lowercolumbia.edu

Title IX / EEO Deputy Coordinator, Vice President of Student Services

  Sue Orchard
  Admissions Center Room 159
  (360) 442-2301
  title9@lowercolumbia.edu