It's No Secret That Consent Online Is Just As Important As Consent Irl. However, Navigating Consent On

It's no secret that consent online is just as important as consent irl. However, navigating consent on Tumblr can look a little bit different than in person. Here are some reminders on how to do so:

ASK before sending sexually forward messages or photos. Unless someone has it very clearly stated on their blog that they willingly accept sexual messages and photos, ask before you do so. Additionally, posting NSFW content ≠ consent. Remember that just because someone is not in a monogamous relationship does not necessarily mean they're seeking a partner or willing to flirt. If you're not sure, ASK!

RESPECT DNIs. Those are in place for a reason. People clearly state those who they are not comfortable interacting with. Do not cross that boundary. Especially respect age DNIs. No one under 18 should be engaging with NSFW content, but some blog set strict 21+ or 25+ rules.

BE CLEAR with your intentions. Tell that person exactly what you're looking for. Do not use the guise of friendship to seek out sexual attention. Do you want to just exchange messages or photos as well? Do you want something for just this once, or do you hope to maintain an ongoing relationship with this person?

"Yes" to exchanging sexual messages or sending photos is not a blanket statement. Be sure to establish boundaries/limits. This can include sexual acts that should not be discussed or whether or not you'll show your face in photos.

Understand that people's boundaries can change. Just because someone was once willing to exchange photos or sexual messages doesn't mean that they always will be. If they tell you "not right now" or "maybe later," that does not mean press them until they say yes. Respect the boundary and move on.

Not everyone wants to engage with NSFW content. Refrain from adding sexual tags/comments on SFW posts. Make your own post!

Respect "No" and "I'm not interested." Do not press someone or think you can change their mind. If someone blocks you, they want you to leave them alone. Do not make new blogs or message sideblog to try to talk to them. If you saved photos they sent you, delete them.

Do not feel guilty about enforcing your own boundaries. If someone crosses a line, you have every right to tell them they made you uncomfortable or block them. You don't need to sacrifice your comfort level to appease others.

Be safe, remember consent, and have fun!!