September 23-25 is Consent Awareness week at UVic. You can find the Sexualized Violence Resource Office (SVRO) at Petch Fountain (in front of the McPherson Library) Tuesday through Thursday handing out swag and answering all your questions. We are your campus hub for confidential and non-judgmental information, support and options for anyone impacted by sexualized violence.
University can be one of the most exciting times in life. You may be in a new city or culture, meeting people, building friendships, and trying new experiences.
One thing that should never be part of your university experience is sexualized violence. While research shows that more than half of all sexual assaults on campuses happen within the first six weeks of school you can play a role in changing these statistics — by practicing consent in all your interactions.
Consent is more than just asking permission — it’s an important way to show respect and care. When we make consent part of everyday life, it becomes easier and more natural to practice it in more private or sexual situations.
For example, people feel respected when you ask before you:
- take or post someone’s photo online
- borrow or use someone’s personal belongings
- share or repeat something told to you in confidence
- adding someone to a group chat
- sit close to them
- touch them or give a hug
Consent Awareness Week is an opportunity for you to test your knowledge about consent and sexualized violence prevention, substances and consent, the SVRO, and how to receive a disclosure. On Community Day, you can also get to connect and get to know other on and off-campus supports available.
Go to uvic.ca/svp to learn more about the SVRO, consent, and sexualized violence prevention. You can also follow us @uvic_equity for Consent Awareness Week and more.
Event details
The SVRO and student volunteers will be at Petch Fountain with free coffee and treats!
- September 23 and 25: Tabling at Petch Fountain 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
- September 24: Community Day at Petch Fountain 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Staff from the SVRO will also be available to answer questions.
