Understanding Consent by Hope

30 October 2025

Teaching children about consent is the first step in preventing sexual crimes. Understanding and abiding by the rules of consent protects both the potential victims and the potential defendants. The golden rule is that consent is nothing short of an enthusiastic “yes.” 

 

Consent is a clear and enthusiastic yes. 

Consent is not silence. 

Consent is not a look or a gesture. 

Consent cannot be assumed.

 

If someone is unable to say “no,” then they are also unable to say “yes.” 

Unconscious people cannot consent. 

People under the influence of alcohol or drugs cannot consent. 

Minors cannot consent. 

 

Consent is not open ended. 

Consent can be withdrawn 

 

Consent is the difference between sex and a crime.