3 Ways to Take Action for Consent Awareness Week
Consent Awareness Week is an educational initiative held at universities across the country. The week is an opportunity for campus communities to create a dialogue about consent, pleasure, relationships and increase understanding of sexual violence. It’s also an opportunity to raise awareness of on- and off-campus services.
This year we are again taking the lead of student advocates and members of the Ontario University Sexual Violence Network by marking this week in September in order to align with the increased risk of sexual violence and harassment that accompanies the start of the new academic year. As a part of Consent Awareness Week, we will also be recognizing We Believe You Day on Tuesday, September 19, 2023. Follow along and share what you’re up to by using #WeBelieveYou and #ConsentAwarenessWeek.
How will you mark Consent Awareness Week? Here are three ideas to get you started.
1. Learn and Grow with Restorative Reading
To mark the start of Consent Awareness Week, we’re excited to share that our Fall 2023 book for our Restorative Reading Book Club is Kai Cheng Thom’s Falling Back in Love with Being Human!
We know it can be tough to find time and motivation to read, especially when school and work stressors are at their peak. Restorative Reading is a virtual, monthly book club that’s all about building-up a community of readers who encourage each other to read when they can as a way to decompress and learn together.
The first 15 registrants will get a copy of the book from us – but feel free to join with your own copy too.
2. Celebrate Queer Orientation
Sept. 18 – 23 isn’t just Consent Awareness Week – it’s also Queer Orientation at UofT! The Sexual and Gender Diversity Office has a full calendar of events that you can take part in, many of which focus on healthy relationships and queer joy.
Remember: When we know what brings us joy and pleasure, we can better express our authentic desires and set clear boundaries.
At the SVPS Centre, we’re hosting 3 sessions that you can join to mark #UofTQO:
3. Seek Support and Build Community with Healing Hearts
Understanding consent and healing from sexual violence and harassment is an ongoing journey. Keep the conversation going by joining our virtual survivor group for people of all genders, Healing Hearts.
The first session of the term is happening via Zoom on Thursday, September 28, from 1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
We’ll be joined by facilitator Aqua Nibii Waawaaskone, who will be leading a circle and guided meditation on the 7 Grandfather Teachings. This workshop is a beautiful exploration, where survivors are invited to come together in a safe and supportive environment to gather tools for healing. It is perfect for anyone seeking knowledge and understanding around our struggles in our human experience on Mother Earth. Learning the 7 Grandfather Teachings allows us to become more Respectful, Loving, Wise, Humble, Courageous, Honest, and Truthful people.