It’s almost spring break, a time when we can relax, reconnect with old friends and meet new ones. Wherever your break takes you, it’s important to engage with boundaries in relationships in an ethical, respectful and caring way. As you celebrate spring break, know the information around consent:
- Sexual consent is a knowing, voluntary and mutual decision among all participants to engage in sexual activity.
- Silence is not consent. Don’t make assumptions. Consent is an active process involving clear communication. Talk about it.
- Personal boundaries can change, and consent can be withdrawn at any time.
- Intoxication is not an excuse for ignoring someone else’s boundaries.
- Sex without consent is illegal.
A person can’t give consent if they are: incapacitated by drugs and/or alcohol; asleep or unconscious; or cannot understand what is happening.
- The age a person can give consent varies by state. In Wisconsin, you can consent to any sexual activity at age 18.
- Consent should be obtained for all forms of intimacy.
- Consent includes requests for contraceptive and STI protection use.
- If you see someone ignoring a lack of consent, find a safe way to intervene.
For more information regarding consent laws in Wisconsin please visit RAINN Consent Laws.
If you or someone you know has experienced sexual violence, there is help on campus through confidential survivor support for UWM students.
