As a Curtin student, you’ve heard about consent before. You’ve done the Respectful Relationships unit, and you’re a pro at knowing what textbook consent should look like.
But despite the widespread education around consent, it may not be so obvious or easy to recognise when you’re in the moments leading up to being intimate with someone. As a quick refresher, consent is actively agreeing to have sex with someone. It’s about verbally stating you’re willing to engage in sex and it’s a way to actively share you’re excited about the experience.
Before getting intimate, you need to know if you and the other person you’re engaging with are on the same page. It’s important to be honest about what you want and don’t want, and be clear about how far you’re willing to go—and vice versa. Keep in mind, that can change at any time too!
But what does consent have to do with Fries?
Planned Parenthood coined the term Consent FRIES to explain the ins and out of enthusiastic consent when it comes to sexual activity. It’s an easy acronym to remember when you’re talking with a potential sexual partner about what you’re both keen to do and what you’re not.
F: Freely Given
Consenting is a choice you make without the pressure or manipulation from another person(s), or the influence of drugs or alcohol.
R: Reversible
You can change your mind at any time. An enthusiastic yes can become a hard no, no matter what stage you’re at or what you’re doing.
I: Informed
You can only consent to something if you know everything about it.
E: Enthusiastic
Only do the things you want to do, not what you feel like you’re expected to do.
S: Specific
Just because you say yes to a make out sesh, doesn’t mean you’ve said yes to anything more.
Remember that consent isn’t just about sexual intimacy, either. It’s about navigating personal boundaries and treating others with respect. It’s not just a normal part of the sexual experience, it’s also a normal part of our daily lives – you are always evaluating and re-evaluating what you are comfortable with doing or being involved with, so in actively do so, you’ll find it easy to ask for and understand consent better during intimate moments.
Everyone deserves the right to feel safe, included and valued on campus – and it all starts with respect.
Respect at Uni Week is a great opportunity to learn how Curtin is fostering a culture of respect, care and safety on campus. Get involved in a range of activities and workshops and discover how you can make our uni safer for everyone.
