University Enforces Yes-Means-Yes Consent Policy

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by: MORGAN STOLPA, CSU Public Relations Intern

The Affirmative Consent Policy at Minnesota State University, Mankato is there to keep you

aware.

At Minnesota State University, Mankato the Equal Opportunity Office is dedicated to preventing sexual violence, discrimination, harassment and will respond to reports of sexual misconduct.

In February 2018, Mankato State University adopted its own Affirmative Consent policy which highlights the importance of having consent when engaging in sexual activity.

The system-wide Minnesota State Sexual Violence Policy adopted by Minnesota State Mankato states: “Consent is informed, freely given and mutually understood. If coercion, intimidation, threats and or physical force are used, there is no consent. If someone is mentally or physically incapacitated or impaired—including from drug or alcohol consumption—and doesn’t understand the situation, there is no consent. Silence does not necessarily constitute consent.”

‘Consent is informed, freely given and mutually understood….Silence does not necessarily constitute consent.’ 

The Affirmative Consent policy creates clarity. If both parties cannot meet the standards of the policy and confidently say, “Yes,” it is not considered consensual. Prior to this policy, a student would have to verbally say, “No” for the incident to be considered sexual assault.  To ensure students are aware of the policy and what is expected of them, Mankato State University provides educational training.

“Students are required to complete the Consent and Respect course. Our office does presentations and trainings on campus to students and employees. The Women’s Center and Violence Awareness and Response Program (VARP) collaborate with other campus offices to offer programming on topics related to sexual violence prevention and awareness. Our office participates in some of this programming,” said Quenter Ramogi, Equal Opportunity & Title IX Specialist, Deputy Title IX Coordinator.

If you or anyone you know has been the victim of sexual, dating or relationship violence, call University Security at 389-2111 immediately, or talk to someone you trust, like your Resident Advisor. To submit a complaint please contact the Office of Equal Opportunity & Title IX at 507-389-2986. You may also consider filing a report with local law enforcement. To report in the city of Mankato, please dial 911.

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