A Poem About Consent
I want to be quite frank here.
Let’s talk about consent.
This doesn’t mean keep badgering
Until someone relents.
I’ll break it down a little more;
Let’s take it from the top.
You need to ask explicitly, and if there’s not a yes
Then stop.
There’s no room for uncertainty
So the second they say no
It doesn’t matter if you want it
The light’s not green for go.
For all sexual activity
You must be clear and sure
As without it, you’re an animal
On the wrong side of the law.
No minors can give their consent
No matter what they say
So make sure you have all the facts
Before you start to play.
It’s not the clothes a person wears
Or the way in which they act
Just assuming they are up for it
Does not make it a fact.
Flirty or suggestive behaviour
Is not an invitation.
Nothing must ever happen
Without an adult conversation.
If you are not mature enough
To talk this subject through,
Then really, it’s a no-go
And sex is not for you.
These intimate acts are a privilege.
It is rape if you take them by force.
An unwilling yes or silence
Is not consent of course.
In fact, even if you’re married
Or you’ve shared a bed before
That doesn’t automatically mean
It’s an ever open door.
Every time, you must ask outright
If they want to proceed with you.
You need a yes, without duress
And nothing less will do.
Make sure your partner is comfortable
At each step down the line.
Consent is not eternal
And can be withdrawn at any time.
A poem about consent written by Ms Moem.
