What does the law say about consent?
All sexual activity without consent, regardless of age, is a criminal offence. The age of consent for sexual activity is 16 years. A 14 or 15 year old can consent to sexual activity with a partner as long as the partner is less than five years older: a 12 or 13 year old can consent to sexual activity with another young person who is less than two years older, as long as the relationship is not exploitative.
Conversation Starters:
– “Before we continue, I want to make sure we’re on the same page.”
– “How do you feel about ________?”
– “Do you like the idea of ________?”
– “I saw something about ______ online, what do you think about that?”
Communication Tips:
– Be clear and open about wants and needs; talk before, during, and after sexual activity.
– Respect boundaries and avoid pressuring your partner.
– Pay attention to body language, and ask for clarification if you need it.
– Be sensitive and mindful of the words you use, and acknowledge it can be awkward!
– Talk about the type of relationship you would like, STI status, and safer sex methods.
You deserve to feel safe, respected, and happy.
Is it ok to have a sexual relationship with someone else who is in their early 20’s because I might be able to have a one night stand with a girl who is in their early 20’s and I’m only 16. Is it right to do it with someone who is in their early 20’s and wants to have sex with a 16 year old guy
Hi! Legally speaking, Canada’s age of consent is 16, which means that a person who is 16 can consent to sex. There are exceptions: if the person who is older than the 16 year old is in a position of power or authority (teacher, coach, even babysitter) because then there is a power dynamic.
Sometimes an age difference from 16 to early 20s means that the people are in really different places in their lives. Sometimes that age difference means that they have different wants, or different abilities to express what they want. You might also ask why the person is wanting to have sex with someone who is 16, instead of someone their age. And if it makes you uncomfortable, you don’t need to do anything you don’t want to do 🙂 It’s important to keep yourself safe.
Finally, any time you’re considering having sex with someone, pay attention to how they treat you (are they pressuring, controlling, or asking you to keep it a secret? Or are they respecting your boundaries?) Trust your gut.
If you have more questions, you can use our anonymous text (519) 569-9521 or email us at doinit.acckwa@gmail.com 🙂