DEFINING

What is Sexual Harassment

Sexual harassment includes unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favours, and other verbal or physical harassment of a sexual nature. Sexual harassment does not always have to be specifically about sexual behaviour or directed at a specific person; it can include negative sexual comments in the workplace and learning environments.

Some examples are

• Making conditions of employment dependent on sexual favours

• Physical acts of sexual assault

• Asking for dates and not taking “no” for an answer

• Demanding hugs

• Verbal harassment of sexual nature

• Unwanted touching or physical contact

• Unwelcome sexual advances

• Catcalling

www.rainn.org/

What is Sexual Assault

Sexual assault is defined by sexual contact or behaviour which occurs without explicit consent from the victim.

This can include:

• Unwanted sexual touching or fondling

• Penetration of the victim’s body, also known as rape

• Forcing a victim to perform sexul acts or penetrating the perpetrator’s body

www.rainn.org/

What is Consent

Consent is an agreement between participants to engage in sexual activity, and can be withdrawn at anytime. When you’re engaging in sexual activity, consent is about communication, and it should happen every time. Giving consent for one activity, one time, does not mean giving consent for increased or recurring sexual contact. It is important for both partners to communicate their comfort levels. Silence does NOT equal consent.