SA’s Gender based violence rate is one of the highest in the world. This evening, I feel convicted to talk about consent “and” rape.

What does consent with regard to sexual activity mean to you?

[THREAD]

Sexual consent should be taught at a young age. It is not always just a matter of “yes” or “no”. It needs to be looked at from ALL angles...

The age of consent in terms of the Criminal Law(Sexual Offences & Related Matters Amendment Act) is 16 years(for both girls & boys). If, however, both partners are between the ages of 12 & 16 they won’t be criminally charged...

...and it is not criminal for a child under 16 to have sex with a partner who is less than 2 years younger than they are. Additionally, in terms of our law, no child under 12 can consent to sex, therefore sex with a pre-teen is rape/sexual assaults.

SITUATIONS WHERE CONSENT CANNOT BE GIVEN include when a person is;

-Asleep, unconscious or in an altered state of consciousness(under the influence/drugged to the extent that their judgement is adversely affected,

-Mentally disabled

-Below the age of 12

SITUATIONS WHERE CONSENT CANNOT BE GIVEN include when a person is;

-Persuaded to give consent under false pretenses or fraudulent means

-Threatened (or someone they know is threatened)

-The victim of an abuse of power or authority

These are some of the myths believed about consent and rape...

It is important to note that “consent is NEVER implied by things like your past behaviour, what you wear, or where you go. Sexual consent is always clearly communicated-there should be no question or mystery. Silence is not consent...”

“...And it’s not ust important the first time you’re with someone. Couples who have had sex before or even those who have been together for a long time also need to consent before sex- EVERY TIME!”

It is very important to ascertain consent before proceeding with any sexual activity with a partner.

[END]