Why ravers need to understand consent

At raves and festivals there are many factors that can potentially compromise your personal boundaries. Being wedged into a busy dance floor with people being under the influence, strobes and lights causing disorientation, or sometimes untoward behaviour can be the cause.

This is where consent and clear communication can be very beneficial. Learning to approach others in a respectful manner is part of the fibre of a successful party. An understanding of consent is crucial to raves, here’s why…

IT BRINGS MORE INTENTION TO THE RAVE
Having more consideration about the impact of your actions, how you interact with others and how you navigate rave spaces make you a more intentional party player. And the world really needs more of that.

IT CULTIVATES RESPECT
People have different personal boundaries. Simply ensuring that you ask, rather than assume everyone is the same, ensures that you’re behaving in a way that respects other people’s personal space.

CONSENT CREATES TRUST & SAFETY
Effective communication around what is acceptable to your fellow ravers generates a culture of trust. This helps people to feel safe. In a safe, trusting environment everyone can enjoy themselves and enjoy a liberated experience.

AVOIDS MISUNDERSTANDINGS
Learning to be upfront with the people you engage with at raves can be vital in avoiding misunderstandings. A simple “Are you ok with me doing x?” might be all you need to connect with someone in a way that feels comfortable for them, as opposed to resulting in a complaint or confrontation.

DEEPENS CONNECTIONS
Though you may only be partying with everyone for a night (or day), learning to understand consent can be the foundation to making strong connections with others. Asking people for their permission empowers them, and creates bonds built on trust, respect and understanding.