On Tuesday, January 27, students lined up in the SLC for this year’s Fries for F.R.I.E.S. event, an annual favourite that brings together comfort food and meaningful conversations about consent. A total of 200 servings were handed out, with students choosing between Bomber waffle fries and regular fries as their well‑earned treat. 

This year introduced a refreshed, research‑informed approach. Before entering the SLC Multi‑Purpose Room, every student first connected with a member of the research team to review the F.R.I.E.S. acronym and the foundations of consent. After this touchpoint, students completed a short survey to demonstrate their understanding, only then were they invited inside to receive their fries. 

This intentional flow ensured that the event remained both fun and educational, giving students a chance to reflect on how consent shows up in everyday life. 

🍟 Consent Is Just Like F.R.I.E.S. 

Consent is rooted in respect, communication, and care. The F.R.I.E.S. acronym helps break it down into five clear principles: 

🍟 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.  

🍟 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 limited to dating or sexual situations. It shows up in everyday interactions—borrowing a hoodie, giving a hug, entering someone’s personal space. Practicing consent means treating others with the same respect you want in return. 

🚩 Red Flags: When Consent Is Missing 

Sometimes the absence of consent is obvious, and sometimes it’s subtle. Recognizing these signs helps keep everyone safe and respected.  

Watch for: 

• 🚩 Guilt‑tripping or pressuring: Making someone feel bad for setting boundaries. 
• 🚩 Making decisions for someone else: Acting without asking or assuming a yes. 
• 🚩 Pushing past boundaries: Ignoring or testing someone’s “no.” 
• 🚩Dismissing nonverbal cues: If someone looks uncomfortable or hesitant, pause and check in. 

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

🍟 Takeaway: More Than Just Fries 

Between the interactive learning, the survey, and the delicious fries, students left with: 

• A clearer understanding of consent 
• Practical tools for everyday interactions 
• A sense of community and shared responsibility 

By practicing consent in all areas of life, not just romantic ones, we help build a safer, more respectful campus culture. One fry at a time. 🍟💛 

Maliha Karim

Communications Assistant