Marchers say 'Consent is sexy'

No matter what she's wearing, no matter what she's done, no matter what she does and no matter how many drinks she's had, “yes” is the only thing that means she wants to engage.

On April 14, a group of Sudburians marched through the streets of Sudbury to help shed some awareness on sexual assault. About 70 people attended the event.

With banners reading “consent is sexy,” the group wanted to make it clear that no one should be blamed for their assault, ever.

“This march serves to remind the community that consent should always be sought for any sexual contact; and that no one, ever, deserves to be assaulted,” Jessica Lamirande, event organizer, said. “I think it's an important issue people don't talk about. It's still taboo.”

According to Lamirande, the biggest issue facing sexual assault it the “victim blaming.”

“This is important because we currently live in a society in which people are advised they must ensure that they do everything in their power to avoid being attacked,” she said.

“We emphasize people's need to avoid harm, rather than the message that we should harm anyone. Instead, we see certain people as 'rape-able.' We blame women who are assaulted for dressing or acting in particular ways. We claim that they could have avoided the situation if only they had been more prudent.”

Posted by Jenny Jelen.