Consent Awareness Week Every September

Summary#

• This bill would make the week that starts on the third Monday in September “Consent Awareness Week” in Ontario.

• The goal is to raise understanding of consent and help prevent sexual assault, especially at the start of the school year.

• Key points:

  • Officially recognizes one week each year to talk about consent and respect in all relationships.
  • Aims to support ongoing efforts on college and university campuses during a higher-risk period in the fall.
  • Encourages public conversations about boundaries, listening, and bodily autonomy (the right to control your own body).
  • Does not create new rules, penalties, or programs; it is a symbolic designation.

What it means for you#

• General public

  • You may see public messages, events, or workshops about consent each September.
  • No new legal duties or penalties for individuals.

• Students and campus communities

  • More campus events, trainings, and campaigns during September about consent and how to ask for and give it clearly.
  • Increased focus on safety resources and where to get help.

• Parents and educators

  • More age-appropriate tools and discussions to teach consent, boundaries, and respect.
  • Opportunities to join or host activities that promote safe relationships.

• Employers and community groups

  • An annual moment to share information, host talks, or update training on consent and respectful conduct.
  • Participation is voluntary; no new mandates in the bill.

Expenses#

Estimated direct cost: none specified in the bill.

• The bill only proclaims a week; it does not require spending.
• Any events or materials would be optional and could be done within existing budgets.
• No publicly available information.

Proponents’ View#

• Raises public awareness about consent during a time when students are returning to campus.
• Encourages open, clear conversations that can help prevent sexual assault.
• Gives schools, workplaces, and communities a shared annual moment to coordinate education and resources.
• Supports existing campus efforts and extends them province-wide.
• Low-cost way to promote safety, respect, and inclusion.

Opponents’ View#

• Symbolic only; does not add funding, services, or enforceable rules to reduce sexual violence.
• Risk that declaring a week could be seen as “doing enough,” without real change or resources.
• Some groups may feel pressure to run events without extra support or staff time.
• May duplicate existing awareness efforts rather than improve services for survivors.