#WhatConsentMeansToMe is trending on Twitter, and it’s starting a much-needed conversation

The sexual assault allegations against Harvey Weinstein have since started a necessary dialogue about sexual violence and harassment. Now, after the success of this week’s viral #MeToo campaign — in which people publicly shared stories of being harassed or assaulted — #WhatConsentMeansToMe is trending on Twitter and is continuing the much-needed conversation surrounding sexual assault, harassment, rape, and abuse.

Consent is often brought into the sexual assault conversation when victims decide to come forward. Although the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN) defines sexual consent as “an agreement between participants to engage in sexual activity,” unfortunately, the definition is not always understood. This is why Twitter users have started educating each other about consent with the hashtag #WhatConsentMeansToMe.

Sure, "no" means no.

But the absence of "yes" also means no.

And you don't get "yes" unless you ask.

FUCKING. ASK.#WhatConsentMeansToMe

— Charlotte Clymer 🏳️‍⚧️🇺🇦 (@cmclymer) October 18, 2017

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The point many are trying to get across is that consent contains a gray area. It’s not always just “yes” and “no.” If a person does not give an answer, you do not have consent. And if a person says yes but then says no, you no longer have consent.

It’s all about listening to and conversing with the other person. Communication, both verbally and physically, is key for consent.

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https://twitter.com/udfredirect/status/920547928665595904

We also must understand that consent has nothing to do with what someone is wearing or how they are acting.

https://twitter.com/udfredirect/status/920547253281890305

No matter what I wear, no matter what you think…no means No #WhatConsentMeansToMe

— JR (@mixturesofpain) October 18, 2017

#WhatConsentMeansToMe
Short dress doesn't mean yes.

— Kitty🐱 (@kittykrumley) October 18, 2017

Practicing consent in sexual relationships really just boils down to having respect for another human being. Plain and simple.

Mutual respect.
There's no scenario that justifies reducing someone to less than a person, to satisfy selfish urges#WhatConsentMeansToMe

— Aidan forgets why he (@aidno) October 18, 2017

It’s time that we all get on the same page about what consent means.No means no.