If you’re anything like me, you’re horribly sad that the last BBQ and party has arrived...which means school is starting up again on Monday. Ughhh, I don’t want summer to end and chances are you don't want it to end either! But, that doesn't mean we need to go extra hard at this last BBQ (you know what I mean). Before that final party, let's go over some potential scenarios and review WHY it's so important to party safely.
Scenario 1: Party is slamming, music bumpin, dances floor is poppin, the drinks are flowing and here walking up to Sarah is Trevor. Trevor isn’t just the cutest boy on the basketball, football and track team, he’s Sarah's ultimate crush and now he wants to dance with her. With the heavy dancing comes the heavier drinking, until he whispers in her ear that wants to take her somewhere. Sarah is REALLY out of it but she nods yes.
Question: Is Sarah's nod consent for Trevor to take her somewhere and have sex with her? Answer: NO! A person who is under the influence of alcohol or drugs cannot legally give consent. Learn more here.
Scenario 2: Alicia and Veronica are already dating - they've been dating for months and have already had sex LOTS of times. At the BBQ, Veronica drank some liquor straight from a bottle, and now she's woozy on her feet. She asks Alicia if they can leave because she doesn't feel good and Alicia drives her home. On the way home, Veronica asks if they can stop at their favorite spot because she's feeling better and "in the mood".
Question: Can Alicia and Veronica have consensual sex even though Veronica's drunk? After all, they've had sex before! Answer: Nope! Again, a person who is under the influence of alcohol or drugs cannot legally give consent even if they've already had sex, even if they are in a relationship, and even if they say they want to! Learn more here.
If you're planning on partying at that final summer bash, it's best to postpone getting physical until you are sobered up and with a partner who is also sober and enthusastic about having sex with you. Play it safe by going with friends that you trust, sticking together, never leaving your drink unattended, and designating a sober driver.