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The “gray area” we have come to know as an inevitable part of sex is a product of our culture’s unhealthy approach to sex. But this murky confusion does not have to and should not exist. We need to talk openly about the “gray area” myth and how it plays out in order to recognize instances in which consent is being assumed where it does not exist and in order to have truly consensual sexual experiences.

Setting boundaries is a challenge for many people – so what do you do about sexual consent if your partner has a hard time saying “no?” Try these steps.

Recently, California passed the “Yes Means Yes” law, which dictates that “an affirmative, unambiguous and conscious decision” must be reached by everyone involved to engage in sexual activity. This was a huge step in the fight against rape culture! What does this decision mean in terms of our society’s view of sex and consent? Check out this video to find out!

Just what does consent mean? In just a few words, this short poem cuts quick and deep to the true meaning of consent. Her words are chilling and unforgettable.

Only have sex with people who’ve given enthusiastic and willful consent. Seems simple – so why are some people against affirmative consent? Here’s a perfect example of how these conversations go.

We often talk about how important consent is, but what, exactly, is consent? Here it is – a video from Lex Croucher covering the basics of what it means to consent to sexual activity. Rape, sexual assault, and coercion are far too common among all types of people. So spread the word, and let’s raise awareness of this clear understanding of consent. (Content Warning: Rape)

Do you know all the ways someone can communicate wanting to have sex? Consent includes words and body language – and this Planned Parenthood video has an excellent breakdown of what that really means.

Life would be awful if people actually did these things – so why do people do it when it comes to rape?

Do you know how fantasies can affect your sex life? If you’ve ever been curious about sexual fantasies, Dr. Doe has some info for you.

How can you build a healthier masculinity for the new year? Challenging these damaging parts of the toxic masculinity status quo is a good start.

As a feminist, an activist, a parent of two boys, and a sexual health educator, I struggle with how to balance my sensibilities with my parenting style. And an issue that I am very connected to is rape culture. How does a parent compete with the constant assault of stereotypes and overwhelming sex-negative messaging in the media? Here are a few suggestions.

Person upset at their therapist's office

If you’ve ever had a therapist like this one or been in her shoes, this can show you how to right the wrongs too many asexual people have to deal with.

CW: Addiction, Sexual Assault, Sex… in general. This article is about sex. I have always had a negative relationship with sex. I discovered masturbating early, around six or seven years old. I would use masturbating combined with my active imagination and constant daydreaming as a way to escape the loneliness and isolation I felt not…

Online dating has never been more popular, perhaps because it enables you to choose who you want to chat to. So throw the traditional dating rulebook out of the window and make the first move on the candidates on your hot list. If you fancy a date with someone, ask them! Read on for some tips for making the best out of your online dating adventures.

Erin McKelle argues that part of the reason why people are so bad at getting consent is because they don’t know what consent looks like. So what does consent look like, and how does it work? Well, for one thing, let’s talk about the importance of enthusiasm when it comes to consent in that it shows actual interest in sex, rather than complacency.

We live with a deep and persistent societal tolerance for the use of women’s bodies by others for their own purposes, profit, political gain and entertainment. Cameras and harassment are the tip of an iceberg of male regulation of women’s bodies and behaviors. Legislation, based on a cultural acceptance of women’s bodies as public resources, is much more pernicious.

Cropped shot of two young children wearing over-sized high heels

This author wasn’t always sure how to support her transgender daughter. But through writing about giving her daughter agency and helping her navigate gender roles, this mom can help other parents who are also struggling.