The Critical Difference Between Consent and Silence

February 8, 2015 / Imani Cezanne

(Content Warning: Sexual violence)

Just what does consent mean?

As we communicate, the differences between our words is significant. In just a few words, this short poem cuts quick and deep to the true meaning of consent.

With an unexpected turn, Imani Cezanne skillfully shows how rape violates the vital need for someone to give willful, affirmative consent before sex. Her words are chilling and unforgettable.

With Love,
The Editors at Everyday Feminism

Click for the Transcript

I hate it when people say they’re slaving away at work, because there’s working.

Then there’s slaving.

Do we see how those are different?

Just like there’s cooking, right? Then there’s microwaving.

There’s dating. Then there’s fucking.

There’s “I don’t know.” Then there’s “Yes.”

There’s intoxicated. Then there’s “Yes.”

There’s silence. And then there’s “Yes.”

There’s drunk sex. And then there’s rape.

Do we see how those are different?

How silence has never been permission to put yourself inside of me?

Consent is a woman’s native tongue.

We do not forget the words that allow entrance into ourselves, which means if you do not hear them, they are not there.

You are not allowed. You are not allowed.

You see, there’s men… And then there’s you.

Do you see how those are different?

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Imani Cezanne is a passionate poet, workshop facilitator, community organizer and slam coach born and raised in San Diego, CA. She just recently returned home from taking 2nd place at the Women of the World Poetry Slam in Austin, Texas.

Video courtesy of Button Poetry. For more amazing spoken word performances, check them out on YouTube and Facebook.