What is Consent? 

Consent is defined by the following:

  • Means all parties are ready and willing to share that moment with one another, and each person has control over their participation and what that moment will be like.
  • Means all participants have to say “Yes” and continue to say “Yes” as the interactions continue.
  • Is enthusiastic, free-willing, clear, concise, mutual, and on-going.
  • Can be verbal or non-verbal (e.g., high-five, thumbs up, head nod “yes”, etc.).
  • Cannot be given if either partner is:
    • Under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol
    • Asleep, unconscious, or incapacitated
    • Coerced in any way
    • Under the age of 18 (unless married)
    • Does not understand the nature of the act

Additional Resources

This video may be helpful when thinking about consent: Tea and Consent.  More about what consent looks like and consent laws in California.

What to Do if You’ve Had a Non-Consensual Interaction

If you have had a non-consensual interaction (i.e., sexual assault, stalking, sexual harassment, etc.), and would like information on resources, supportive measures, and reporting options, please contact the Title IX Team.