Consent
Engaging in sexual activity with another person without their consent is sexual assault,
and is a violation of MCLA’s Title IX Sexual Harassment Policy.
What does Consent mean?
- Consent is an understandable exchange of affirmative words or actions, which indicate
a willingness by all parties to participate in mutually agreed upon sexual activity.
- Consent must be informed and freely and actively given.
- It is the responsibility of the initiator to obtain clear and affirmative responses
at each stage of sexual involvement.
- Consent to one form of sexual activity does not imply consent to other forms of sexual
activity.
- Consent to sexual activity may be withdrawn at any time, as long as the withdrawal
is communicated clearly.
- Whether an individual has taken advantage of a position of influence over a Complainant
may be a factor in determining consent. A position of influence could include supervisory
or disciplinary authority.
Consent has not been effectively communicated when it is based on:
- the other person remaining silent, unless their silence is accompanied by non-verbal
conduct conveying a willingness to participate in mutually agreed upon sexual activity;
- the other person being incapacitated by alcohol or drugs;
- unreasonable pressure or emotional manipulation of the other person;
- consent that was communicated on a previous occasion;
- consent that is communicated to a third person, but not directly to you;
- the other person’s inability to resist physical force (a person’s resistance to physical
force will be viewed as a clear demonstration that the person has not communicated
consent);
- a current or previous dating, romantic, intimate, or sexual relationship with the
other person;
- the other person currently or previously cohabitating with you;
- the other person’s attire, reputation, or sexual arousal;
- a gift you have given to or received from the other person;
- the other person extending or accepting an invitation to go to a private residence,
room, or other location.
For more information about consent, you can access our sexual violence prevention
training on canvas.
Other helpful information for understanding consent can be found by using the following
links:
Take a Consent Quiz
Download a Guide to Consent
links
Help for Complainants
Help for Respondents
Support & Interim Measures
File a Formal Complaint
Title IX Procedure
Consent
Information for Managers and Supervisors
Equal Opportunity
Title IX Personnel Training Information
MCLA Equal Opportunity, Diversity, and Affirmative Action Plan
Questions? Contact Us
Patrick Connelly
Dean for Title IX, Equal Opportunity, and Student Wellness
Office Location: Amsler Campus Center - Room 105F
Phone: 413-662-5127
Email: patrick.connelly@mcla.edu
Mailing Address: 375 Church Street, North Adams, MA 01247