Was I Assaulted?
What is sexual assault?
Sexual assault is one form of sexual violence. It occurs when someone forces or manipulates another individual into unwanted sexual activity without their consent. Some forms of sexual assault include:
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Rape
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Attempted Rape
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Alcohol or Drug-Facilitated Sexual Assault
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Unwanted Fondling or Sexual Touching
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Sodomy (unwanted oral or anal penetration)
What is consent?
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Consent is a mutual, informed, sober, honest, and clear agreement from each person involved before sexual activity.
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Consent must be voluntarily given -never coerced or forced, or involve pressure, intimidation, or threats.
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Consent must never be assumed or implied. A relationship does not mean that you always have consent to have sex with your partner.
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Consent may be withdrawn at any time. When it is withdrawn, all sexual activity must stop immediately.
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Consent cannot legally be given by a person who is under the influence of drugs or alcohol. If you are too intoxicated to communicate with your partner or make your own decisions, then you are too drunk to consent.
What is NOT consent?
Consent is NOT when your partner:
- Is silent or unresponsive.
- Avoids the question.
- Uses uncertain statements such as:
- “I am not sure if I am ready.”
- “I do not know if I want to.”
- “I think that I had too much to drink.”
- “I am scared.”
- Changes their mind after consenting.
- Is pressured, coerced, or manipulated.
- “Gives in.”
- Agrees to “going back to your place.”
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If one person does not want the sexual act to happen, it is sexual assault.
Consent cannot be given by individuals who are intoxicated, incapacitated, or unconscious.
Sometimes a sexual experience is not clearly defined. "Did I give my consent?", "Was I okay with that?" If you find yourself asking questions about your experience, please consider the reporting options and medical options in the tabs in the left hand column.