Heads turned across the country upon the release of the video in which Donald Trump reveals his preference to "grab them [women] by the p***y", claiming that his stardom allows him to do whatever he wants to beautiful women. The majority of viewers were appalled by the comments made in this video, and for good reason. The fact that a presidential candidate thinks that his position of power makes him invincible to common decency is revolting. The truth is, with comments like Donald's being made in the public eye, it is necessary to revisit consent: what it is, how to obtain it, and why it is compulsory in order to engage in any act with another person.
Consent is defined as permission for something to happen or agreement to do something. The key words here are "permission" and "agreement". Consent means that you do not have to engage in something you are uncomfortable with and your partner cannot force you to do so. In most cases, consent is used in regards to physical actions, whether that be a kiss or something more. It is best to obtain consent whenever engaging in something new, but in all reality, consent once given does not mean it is permanent. lt is best to ask for consent whenever possible. This way, you will have a much more comfortable, open dynamic and mutual respect for one another.
Unfortunately, Donald Trump's disgusting comments do not encourage consent in any way. In fact, his views are suggesting that it is okay to take advantage of women. For viewers across the country, he is helping to normalize "locker room talk" and further promote the horrendous rape culture that exists in our nation. If a presidential candidate thinks he can grab people in inappropriate places without consent, then what's to stop everyone from thinking the same thing? Something must change.
With campus rapes, women's rights, and abusive relationships being such pertinent issues in America, it is important to be more sensitive to the values of consent, and its necessity in all relationships. Rather than supporting a culture of patriarchal, sexually-entitled views, we need to educate ourselves and others. We must not perpetuate rape culture, locker room talk, "boys will be boys" mentality, or ignorance when it comes to appropriate sexual behavior. We must support healthy relationships, respectful men, consensual sex, and all peoples' rights to their bodies. No matter what your views are on the politicians in this upcoming election, keep these values in mind. Not only as you vote, but as we look to the future as a nation.
