Consent Corner 1.17

by Emma Atkinson and Rachel Drake

Hello sexy readers! Spring is almost here and there’s an almost visible hope in the air. Can you feel it? Can the reopening of the CSPC be far behind?

A local nonprofit organization that sponsors an annual kinky camping event - The Gathering Northwest - recently hosted a discussion with folks representing local venues about what a post-pandemic reopening might look like. Maybe you’ve visited The Streamhouse or Kitsap Aces, or attended The Gathering NW or Leather Reign. Representatives of these groups talked about what precautions they might take upon reopening, and they pondered requiring proof of vaccination, social distancing, and masks. Everyone who holds a leadership position said that they want to keep you as safe as possible. But we need your help in being mindful of consent, which includes being transparent in sharing information and knowing your own capacity to uphold your autonomy and the autonomy of others. That way your sexy self can visit these events again and again! 

What seemed clear is that there are a lot more questions than answers, and there are going to be a lot more conversations about risk-sharing. You are responsible for you and for giving your consent. You want to be safe and to minimize the risk of something bad happening. The venue/party/conference wants you to be safe, too. They want your visit to be one you’ll remember with a smile. 

When you attend a party/event/happening, you give your consent to it as it is. What advice can we offer you? We’re so glad you asked. Get your documentation together for tests, shots, etc. Read what you’re signing. Ask questions. Get clarification if you’re puzzled. And, trust your gut, or at least respect what its intuition is trying to tell you. 

Your gut is probably reminding you how good it felt to be in the company of kindred spirits. Thank you for doing your part to build the community we all want. 

Questions? Hit us up at: info@thecspc.org

“Be excellent to each other” - Bill and Ted

“Be sexcellent to each other” - Emma and Rachel