What is Sexual Assault?
Sexual assault is when someone does something sexual to you without your permission. Any unwanted sexual activity including penetration or intercourse, kissing, fondling, groping, oral sexual contact, and exposure to sexual images or videos without consent and with force, is considered assault. Anyone, regardless of age, gender, or sexual orientation, can be affected. The assaulter can be a stranger or a person you know closely (e.g., friend, relative, partner).
What is Consent?
Consent means that you willingly agree to do something sexual with someone. It should be a clear, continuous and enthusiastic “YES” and cannot be provided if one person is being forced, pressured, coerced, or is under the influence of drugs or alcohol. In Canada, the legal age of consent is 16 years. Remember that everyone has the right to decide for themselves if they want or do not want to engage in any sexual activity. .
What is Coercion?
Coercion refers to the use of force, pressure, or power to influence or manipulate another person’s decision to engage in sexual activity. It also includes threats and intimidation to make the other person comply with the sexual advances or use drugs or alcohol to influence their capacities. If your partner makes you feel bad, scared, or guilted to say no to sex, that's coercion. Coercion often involves emotional manipulation (e.g., “I will end my life”, “If you really cared about me”) and can be difficult to recognize. However, you should remember that you do not need to engage in any activity that makes you feel violated or uncomfortable.
Recognizing Assault
It's important to recognize and acknowledge if you or someone you know has been assaulted. This can be especially challenging when it involves someone you know or are in a relationship with. Due to the nature of the act, many individuals blame themselves for being assaulted. You should know that it is NOT your fault if someone abuses or assaults you, or violates your personal space. The key thing to remember is to ask for help. Call 911 if you or someone you know is in immediate danger.
