What is consent?

• Consent refers to sexual and physical intimacy which is freely, intelligently, and voluntarily shared between two adults.
• Meaningful consent about sexual activity cannot be given in relationships where there is significant imbalance of status power (for example, between professor and student, pastor and congregant, adult and child).
• Pastors, therapists, physicians are required by fiduciary duty to not engage in sexual behaviors with those whom they serve, counsel, or teach. Any type of sexualized behavior that occurs between a professional of this nature and their client, patient, student, or congregant is unethical and is considered sexual misconduct.
• The age of consent in Canada is 16. However, there are important exceptions that all Canadians should understand. Click here for a more detailed explanation of consent and the Canadian law.