As Halloween approaches the writers of Her Campus Hampton U thought it would be extremely important to reiterate the importance of “No Meaning No.” To those out there who still try to read between the lines, and try to justify pursuing someone who doesn’t need to be pursued, this message is for you too.
Halloween costumes, Halloween parties, dark nights, scary nights, none of these are excuses to do anything to anyone that isn’t wanted. We just want to let you all know that during this time of year, the most sexual assaults take place. People try to tell us to cover up and not wear revealing clothes instead of telling boys not to rape and keep their hands to themselves. So, we thought we needed to remind our fellow girls how to be protected and how to stand firm in your “NO.”
Rule 1: No Means No!
Rule 2: If you’re drunk and you can’t properly consent, that’s a NO.
Rule 3: If you’re uncomfortable, unsure, and scared to say something, that means NO.
Rule 4: You don’t have to do anything you don’t want to do.
Rule 5: Stay with your friends, make sure they’re actually your friends.
Rule 6: Never leave your drink and walk away from it; if you do get a new cup.
Rule 7: Don’t go anywhere alone in the dark, whether you’re trick or treating or walking to a party, be careful of your surroundings.
Rule 8: The way you dress doesn’t mean you should be raped, your consent is still essential.
Rule 9: Be safe!
Rule 10: Make sure you always have a plan if one fails and you need to get out of the situation.
Lastly, have fun, make memories, but always be cautious and always be willing to protect yourself. No one should be preyed on during a holiday that is meant for candy and costumes; just in case someone didn’t get the memo, here is a reminder to you.