School Policy Forbids Kids From Saying ‘No’ When Asked to Dance : The Hearty Soul

The #metoo movement, which originated in 2006, was created to provide support for survivors of sexual violence. The hashtag quickly gained popularity, sparking crucial conversations about the prevalence of sexual violence in our society and dominating national discourse. Despite the increased awareness of rape culture, some schools are failing to prioritize education on consent and create safe environments for their students.
Azlyn’s Story
Eleven-year-old Azlyn was excited for her school’s Valentine’s Day dance, but her experience was marred when she was forced to dance with a boy who made her uncomfortable, despite politely declining. The school’s policy of requiring all students to dance was unsettling to Azlyn’s mother, who spoke out against it. The importance of consent in education and everyday interactions cannot be overstated, especially in combating rape culture.
The Importance of Consent
Dr. Rebecca Schrag Hershberg emphasizes the importance of teaching children about consent, as well as modeling respectful behavior. Programs in Kenya have shown that empowering boys to speak out against sexual violence is effective in reducing its incidence. It’s crucial to educate young people about consent before they become sexually active to foster a culture of respect and safety.
How to Talk to Kids About Consent
Teaching kids about consent should begin at a young age by encouraging them to ask for permission and respect others’ boundaries. As children grow, the concept of consent should be integrated into everyday decision-making and conversations about bodily autonomy. Adolescents and teens need to understand the complexities of consent, including situations where consent cannot be given, and the consequences of violating boundaries.
Talking about Consent with Teenagers
Engage teenagers in discussions about consent through media, news stories, and real-life scenarios. Encourage open dialogue and provide accurate information to help them navigate relationships and understand the importance of respecting boundaries. Continuous communication about consent is essential in shaping attitudes and behavior towards a culture of consent and respect.