Sexual consent. What is it and why it matters?

Consent is simple. If it’s not a clear, verbal yes, it’s a no.
And it’s not consent if you make the other person feel afraid to say no. 

It is critical that you are completely sure that the person you're with is happy and willing to engage in sexual behavior, because nonconsensual sexual activity (even kissing and touching) is against the law and there are serious consequences.

Not only is sex without consent against the law and a crime, pressuring or forcing someone into a sexual situation can cause lasting emotional damage. If you care about the one you’re with, get clear and verbal consent first—and if he or she has a change of mind midway, stop.  

Consenting to one sexual behavior does not obligate you to consent to another sexual behavior or activity, nor does consenting once obligate you to consent a second time. 

Ask yourself: 

“Is my behavior appropriate?”
“Is it welcome?”
“Is it offensive?” 

Alcohol and drugs and sexual consent:

A person who is asleep or mentally or physically incapacitated, through the effect of drugs or alcohol or for any other reason, is not capable of giving valid consent. The use of alcohol or drugs may seriously interfere with both participants' judgment about whether consent has been sought and given. If in doubt, don’t.