Consent requires actual words or conduct indicating a freely-given agreement to have sexual intercourse, or to participate in sexual activities.

A person must be fully conscious and able to understand what is happening to be able to give consent. Someone who is unconscious, sleeping, passed out, or incapacitated by alcohol/drugs is unable to give consent.

Consent is an ongoing process, not a one-time event. Make sure your partner is comfortable at every step of the way. If you are unsure if you have your partner's consent, ASK! Even if you may feel embarrassed, ASK! In a healthy and respectful sexual encounter your partner will appreciate that you respect their safety and their body.

Silence is not consent. Consent is not the absence of a "no", rather the presence of a "yes". Non-responsiveness is also not consent. Just because a person does not fight back, does not mean they have given consent. If your partner is not participating, or not responding to your actions, you do not have consent. Stop and Ask your partner whether or not you have their consent.

Type of relationship (dating, intimate, married, or living together) or length of relationship (1 minute, 1 date, 1 year) is not consent to sexual activity. You must have your partner's consent for every sexual encounter.

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