Equal Relationships and Consent • What Can I Do • The Law • Home

Equal Relationships: Healthy Vs. Unhealthy

What would you call YOUR relationship?

A healthy relationship is one that is based on equality. An adult (over 18) who is in a relationship with a minor (under 17) cannot, by definition, be equal partners. Illinois law is there to protect minors, even if the minor thinks he/she is choosing the relationship.

The bottom line is this: a minor cannot consent to any type of sexual conduct, period!

Anytime an adult engages in any type of sexual conduct with a minor, it is a form of exploitation and is against the law. The adult is using the sexual and emotional inexperience of the minor to get them to consent to sexual activity. This is unhealthy!

If you know someone who is in an “unhealthy” relationship, talk with them and tell them about this website.
Feel free to contact us and we will help you process your options and answer your questions.

What is Consent?

Consent is based on CHOICE

Consent is ACTIVE, not passive

Consent is possible only when there is equal POWER

Giving in because of fear is NOT consent

Deception or manipulation eliminates the possibility of consent

If you can’t say no comfortably, then “YES” has NO MEANING

If you are unwilling to accept “No” then “Yes” HAS NO MEANING

Consent means to give your permission by saying “yes”

Giggling, changing the subject or squirming away does not communicate a “yes” or a “no”

To give your permission you must be able to say “yes” or “no” without pressure.

If someone gets you to do something through lying, you did not give consent because that person tricked you.