Fries for F.R.I.E.S.: Free Poutine & A Side of Consent Awareness! 🍟✨

On January 30, 2025, nearly 700 students showed up for our FRIES for F.R.I.E.S., a fun and impactful event where they learned about consent while enjoying free poutine.

Consent is just like FRIES, and not just because they’re delicious: 

🍟 F – Freely Given: No pressure, no guilt-tripping, no manipulation. Consent should always be a real choice that you want.  

• Example: You agree to go out with friends because you want to, not because you feel obligated, pressured or forced. If you say no they respect this the first time you say it. 

🍟 R – Reversible: Changing your mind at any time is always okay! It doesn’t matter if you said yes before, you can say no at any time.

• Example: You agree to share a ride with someone, but if you start feeling uncomfortable, you can ask to get out at any point. 

🍟 I – Informed: Consent only counts if everyone knows what is happening. Lying or leaving out key details is not it.  

• Example: If you’re asked to take on a new responsibility at work, you should be provided with all the information about the task. 

🍟 E – Engaged*: If it’s not a “Yes!”, then it’s a no. No one should feel forced or unsure.  

• Example: During a group project, everyone shares their ideas and agrees on the plan together, making sure everyone is involved and comfortable with the direction. 

• *Enthusiastic is used in this acronym by Planned Parenthood. 

🍟 S – Specific: saying yes to one thing doesn’t mean saying yes to everything.

• Example: Saying “yes” to one type of touch like a kiss does not mean “yes” to other forms of touch such as sex 

Consent isn’t just about saying “yes” or “no.” It’s about respect, communication, and ensuring everyone involved feels safe and valued. Always check in, and do not make assumptions about what others may want or need. Consent is continuous and happens everyday with all our interactions. It goes beyond sex or dating—it’s part of everyday interactions. Whether you’re asking to borrow a friend’s hoodie, giving someone a hug, or entering someone’s personal space, consent is key. It’s about treating others with the same respect you’d want in return. 

Red Flags: Knowing When Consent is Missing 🚩 

When consent is unclear or lacking, it often shows up in subtle (and not so subtle) ways, like: 

• 🚩Guilt-Tripping or Pressuring: Making someone feel guilty for setting boundaries or acting as if they “owe” you a yes. 
• 🚩Making decisions for someone else: Assuming consent instead of asking for it or doing something without clear permission.  
• 🚩Pushing past boundaries: Someone repeatedly ignores your “no” or tests your limits.  
• 🚩Dismissing nonverbal cues: If someone looks uncomfortable or hesitant, that’s a clear sign to pause and check in. 

Recognizing these red flags is key to staying safe and respecting others.  

🍟 Takeaway: More Than Just Fries 

Between interactive activities, cool swag, and (of course) free fries, students left the event with full stomachs and a stronger understanding of why consent matters everywhere. By practicing consent in all areas of life, we help build a safer, more respectful community, one fry at a time. 🍟💛